Brentford's Thomas Frank keen to keep Ivan Toney despite Arsenal interest

Brentford boss Thomas Frank has insisted that he is determined to keep Ivan Toney amid interest from Arsenal.

The 27-year-old is coming towards the end of an eight-month ban for breaching the Football Association's betting regulations.

Despite being out of action since May, Toney's future has been the subject of considerable transfer speculation in recent weeks.

A recent report claimed that Arsenal were leading London rivals Chelsea in the race to secure the striker's services.

The Gunners have allegedly made contact with the forward's representatives as they weigh up whether to pursue a deal in the January window.

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Although Toney is reportedly excited by the prospect of joining Mikel Arteta's side, Frank has made it clear that he has no interest in selling one of his key players.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's clash with Crystal Palace, Frank said: "Ivan is training very well, on and off the pitch, and looking forward to finally contributing to the team.

"I see at least the same determination and willpower to want to train well and be ready to play – maybe a tiny bit more in terms of wanting to come back and be at his best. It's good, only positive.

"Am I desperate to keep him? Desperate is a big word. I'd really, really like to keep him. I'm a head coach. I'd love to have my best players with me all the time.

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"So from my perspective, I don't want to sell him. That's me, because he is fantastic. Last year three players scored more than 20 goals in the Premier League and he was one of them. So obviously he is an important player for us and we are just enjoying him every day and looking forward to when we can use him."

While Toney continues to be linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, Frank has confirmed that the club have received no bids for the England international.

Frank added: "I don't know about that. You'll have to ask Arsenal. As far as I know, Ivan is a Brentford player. No bids. I want to keep him and he's looking forward to playing for us."

With his lengthy ban set to end in the middle of next month, Toney could return to action in Brentford's home meeting with Nottingham Forest on January 20.

Their main focus will be on Saturday's trip to Selhurst Park, where they will attempt to return to winning ways after losing their last four matches.