Brentford forward Ivan Toney has been left out of the Bees Premier League opener against Crystal Palace.
The England striker, who has just one-year left on his deal with Brentford, has not been named in Thomas Frank’s squad for their clash against Palace. It has been widely speculated Toney would be available this summer with time running out on his contract.
However, Brentford are thought to be digging their heels in when it comes to Toney’s price tag. They are reportedly holding out for between £50m to £60m for the 28-year-old, who in just five months time will be free to negotiate a move next summer to any club he wishes.
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Manchester United have been linked with the England striker, who missed the majority of last season due to a betting ban. He scored just four goals in 17 appearances last term, but a season prior hit 20 in 33 games for Brentford in the Premier League.
Toney has also been linked with a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli, which could see him link up with former Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino, and ex-Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez. Talks are said to have already taken place between Al-Ahli and Brentford with Toney reportedly after a salary of more than £17m to consider moving to Saudi.
Brentford boss Frank, who had in the past put a £100m price tag on Toney, has previously admitted he is surprised his star striker is still with the Bees. “I am a bit surprised that there hasn’t been the move yet. It will come. You want your best players, and he’s one of my best players if not my best player so I’m just delighted he’s here.”
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(Image: PA)
It had also been thought that despite his contract situation, Brentford would be keen to hold on to Toney this term, especially after his replacement, Igor Thiago, who the Bees signed from Club Brugge for £30m this summer, suffered a meniscus injury during pre-season.
However, his exclusion from the Bees squad for their opening day clash against Crystal Palace has seemingly signalled his Brentford career is all but over. Brentford are well stocked up front with Kevin Schade, Yoane Wissa and Bryan Mbuemo named as Frank’s starting front three against Palace.
And should Brentford now be willing to drop their price tag for Toney and sell him, they could then look to invest that money back into their squad before the transfer window slams shut.