Ivan Toney left out of Brentford squad because of ‘transfer interest’ in striker

Thomas Frank has explained that Ivan Toney did not play in Brentford's match against Crystal Palace on Sunday because there are many clubs interested in signing the English striker.

The player, who is 28 years old, has just one year left on his contract and has openly expressed his wish to depart from Brentford. He has been rumored to be in talks with Arsenal, Chelsea, and Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League. Even though Frank mentioned that a transfer is not imminent, he decided to exclude Toney from the team's first game of the Premier League season.

The Brentford manager told Sky Sports before the game that Ivan has a lot happening, especially with transfer offers. Due to this, they have chosen not to include him in the squad.

"I don't want to spoil too much before the big day," said the Brentford coach. "Everyone knows Ivan is a talented player. He's been a key part of our team for four years, but we proved last season that we can succeed even without him."

When asked if Toney, who came on as a substitute in Brentford's last preseason match against Wolfsburg, had already played his final game for the club, he responded, "It's hard to say. There are teams interested in him, but nothing is certain yet."

Crystal Palace's team leader, Marc Guéhi, was chosen to play in Sunday's match by Oliver Glasner even though Newcastle continues to show interest in him. It is said that Palace turned down an offer from Newcastle for up to £65m. However, their chairman, Steve Parish, acknowledged having discussions with Newcastle's sports director, Paul Mitchell, and mentioned that other teams are also interested in the English defender.

"We always show utmost respect when there is interest in one of our players," Parish mentioned during his conversation with TalkSport. "We hold Newcastle United in high regard and I have great admiration for Paul Mitchell. I have known him for a long time and he has been a strong supporter of me in the football industry. Our relationship is solid, and we have discussed the situation."

Natural, the agents are engaged and have a perspective, they are respectable individuals. We have discussed with other teams that have shown interest in Guéhi too.

Parish also mentioned that Palace may not pursue re-signing Wilfried Zaha due to tax complications that could prevent a loan move from Galatasaray. "I would welcome Wilf Zaha back without hesitation. Sadly, it seems unlikely to happen this summer," he stated.