Arsenal are reportedly facing a thrilling transfer battle with Chelsea for the signature of Brentford striker Ivan Toney ahead of the January transfer window.
But the 27-year-old Brentford star, who is currently serving a ban for breaching gambling rules, has hinted he prefers to move to Arsenal, a club he has admired since childhood.
Toney is serving an eight-month ban for breaching the Football Association’s gambling rules on 232 occasions.
He was permitted to return to training at Brentford in September and cannot play again until January 17, 2024.
Speaking in a recent interview on the “Diary of a CEO” podcast, Toney who netted 20 goals last season said he has always admired Arsenal and the fans.
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“The next club I go to, if I was to move, would be the right club,” the former Northampton Town youth player said.
“I’ve been a Liverpool fan my whole life, but I’ve liked Arsenal from a young age. I’ve liked watching Arsenal, how they play, and how passionate their fans are.”
Brentford have set a low asking price for Arsenal target despite interest from other Premier League clubs, including Chelsea and Tottenham.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported on the Debrief Podcast that the deal can be sealed for just £65m.
That’s despite a fee of around £80m being suggested before the striker’s betting issues came to light.
Also, Brentford manager Thomas Frank admitted Toney will likely leave in January if the price is right.
“I think every club in the world is a selling club apart from five or six clubs. We are a selling club if the right price is there,” Frank said.
“If they build well with us on this journey, and now prove they are good enough to go to the top clubs, but for the right price. Yes, I understand why there are a lot of rumours out there, for me, as a striker and a number nine, I don’t see many others better than Toney in the world.”
Arsenal will be hoping to get back to winning ways in the Premier League when they face lowly Sheffield United this Saturday.
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