Ivan Toney's Brentford escape route? England striker offered Saudi transfer- but Thomas Frank delivers bullish update on talisman's future

According to a report from Foot Mercato, Al-Ahli have offered Toney a tempting three-year contract worth an estimated €18 million (£15.5m/$20m) annually. This lucrative proposal underscores the Saudi ambition to secure top talent from Europe's elite leagues as they continue to bolster their competition. The offer has reportedly caught Toney’s attention as the player remains open for a fresh challenge after proving his mettle at the Gtech Stadium.

With only one year remaining on his current contract, Brentford face a crucial decision regarding Toney’s future. It has been reported that the Bees have lowered their asking price for the striker from £60m ($77m) to £30m ($39m), indicating a willingness to consider bids this summer to avoid the risk of losing him for free next year.

Despite the ongoing speculation surrounding Toney’s future, Brentford manager Frank remains resolute in his belief that the striker will stay with the club for the upcoming season, and in an interview with Sky Sports, he expressed his optimism about retaining the services of his top marksman.

"There has been a lot of talk about Ivan for many years, but let's just say over the last six months about whether he will leave this summer," Frank stated. "So far, he is still a Brentford player, so I think we are getting closer and closer to him remaining a Brentford player. I am getting more and more excited because he is a top player and I love working with Ivan - we have a fantastic relationship. That is what I think, he will be a Brentford player after the first of September."

However, Toney’s aspirations appear to extend beyond a move to Saudi Arabia. The England international has made it clear that his primary goal is to join one of the Premier League’s top clubs.

Tottenham Hotspur were strongly linked with a move for Toney before signing Dominic Solanke. Arsenal, too, have shown interest in the forward, but a concrete offer has yet to be made.

Manchester United and Chelsea have also reportedly been monitoring Toney’s situation, as both clubs seek to strengthen their attacking options. Rumours suggest that these clubs are exploring the possibility of securing Toney on an initial loan deal with an option to buy next summer. This arrangement could appeal to the financially cautious Red Devils and Blues, but it remains to be seen whether Brentford would entertain such a proposal.

For now, Toney remains a Brentford player, fully focused on his responsibilities with the club. He is expected to feature in their opening match of the 2024-25 Premier League season against Crystal Palace on Sunday. But as the transfer window approaches its final stages, it remains to be seen whether Brentford can retain their star striker or if Al-Ahli’s lucrative offer will prove too tempting to resist.