Brentford boss Thomas Frank has explained why he omitted Ivan Toney from his squad for the upcoming match against Crystal Palace.
According to Frank, the decision was influenced by “transfer interest” in the England forward.
Toney has been the subject of speculation this summer, with Arsenal and Chelsea reportedly showing interest.
On Sunday, Fabrizio Romano reported that Saudi Arabian club Al Ahli had also included Toney in their transfer shortlist.
Ahead of Brentford’s season opener against the Eagles on Sunday, Frank addressed the situation: “A lot of things going on with Ivan [Toney], especially with transfers, there’s a lot of transfer interest.
“Because of all that, we’ve decided not to include him in the squad.
“I can’t give too much away the day before.
“Of course, Ivan is a top player, we all know that.
“He has been fantastic for us for four years but we showed last season we can cope without him.”
When asked if he had played his last game for the Bees, he added: “Who knows.
“There is interest, it’s not close.”
The England striker has just one year remaining on his contract with Brentford.
There has been widespread speculation that Toney could be available this summer due to the dwindling time left on his contract.
However, Brentford are reportedly holding firm on Toney’s price tag, demanding between £50 million and £60 million for the 28-year-old.
In just five months, Toney will be free to negotiate a move to any club of his choice for next summer.
Manchester United have been linked with Toney, who missed much of the previous season due to a betting ban.
He scored only four goals in 17 appearances last term, but the season before, he netted 20 goals in 33 Premier League games for Brentford.
Additionally, Toney has been rumoured to be a target for Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli, where he could potentially join former Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino and ex-Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez.
Reports suggest that discussions have already occurred between Al-Ahli and Brentford, with Toney reportedly seeking a salary of over £17 million to consider a move to Saudi Arabia.
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