Frank insists Toney 'happy to stay' at Bees amid Arsenal and Chelsea links

Thomas Frank insists Ivan Toney is "happy to stay" at Brentford following rumours of a January exit.

Toney, 27, is currently serving an eight-month FA ban for betting breaches but will be available for selection again on January 17.

By that time, though, the England striker will have 18 months left on his contract and there are reports both Arsenal and Chelsea are interested in signing him.

But quashing those stories, Bees manager Frank said: "I want him to stay. Ivan is happy to stay.

"He is happy at the club. What happens in the future is impossible to guess."

Despite his ban coming into effect in the closing stages of the season, Toney enjoyed a sensational 2022-23 campaign that saw him score 20 goals in 33 Premier League games. 

He was also rewarded with his first England cap against Ukraine in March. 

Frank, 50, added: "He's a top player, one of our most important players, if not the most important last year. 

"Any player that can score 20-plus goals in the Premier League is very, very important.

"Ivan's skillset in terms of finishing abilities with his left and right [foot], heading and his composure in those moments and his link-up play and his presence, character, is a very good package."

Recent reports suggest Brentford will demand up to £100million for any side that wishes to sign their star striker during the mid-season window.

On those rumours, Frank said: "It's not [up to] me to put a price tag on him, it's down to the club. But I'm happy with him. I hope he plays here forever and I'm the coach."

Toney will remain absent as the Bees host West Ham on Saturday afternoon as they look to build on successive victories over Burnley and Chelsea.