- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
Ivan Toney was left out of the Brentford squad for their Premier League opener against Crystal Palace on Sunday.
Sources have confirmed to HITC that the reason behind his omission is because talks are ongoing over a move away.
Ivan Toney wasn’t missed by Brentford, with Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa scoring in a 2-1 win at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Toney is pushing to leave Brentford this summer despite the summer window only remaining open for the next two weeks.
The 28-year-old is eager to secure a move away but as of yet there have been no offers made that match Brentford’s asking price.
Speaking prior to kick-off on Sunday, Brentford manager Thomas Frank said “Things are happening for Ivan Toney so we decided not to involve him in the squad.
“There’s interest, nothing closed yet but things are happening”.
Brentford asking price revealed
There is plenty of interest in Toney this summer, but no clubs have been willing to reach into their pockets and meet Brentford’s valuation.
HITC understands that the Bees are refusing to accept less than £50million for the England international.
Toney has been assessed by the Premier League’s ‘Big Six’, with North London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham in particular showing interest throughout the summer.
Spurs addressed their need for a centre-forward with a £65million move for Dominic Solanke, but Arsenal continue to be linked with striker targets.
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HITC understands that if Brentford were open to dropping their £50million asking price for Toney then two Premier League clubs would step up their interest, but there is little suggestion from club sources that they have.
There has also been interest from the Saudi Pro League and talks were engaged last week with Al-Ahli open to making a move for Toney.
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