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Thomas Frank gives Arsenal reason to sign ‘complete striker’ Ivan Toney
Brentford manager Thomas Frank may have just, via TNT Sports, explained why Arsenal should seek his No. 9 Ivan Toney in the summer.
According to reports, if Arsenal had had their way during the winter transfer window, they would have signed Toney. However, the transfer did not go through due to the Bees’ high asking price and Arsenal’s reluctance to close the deal due to FFP concerns.
We thought the move would happen in the summer, but conflicting reports suggest that Arsenal may no longer want Toney. Football London revealed the profile of the striker Arsenal wants. They claim that the Gunners are looking for a younger striker, and 27-year-old Toney doesn’t meet that description. That revelation attempted to establish why the Brentford man may not move to the Emirates Stadium this summer.
Many assumed that Arsenal thought Toney was ideal for their team prior to the winter transfer window. And some outlets say Arteta remains a big fan and could still move for the England international in the summer.
Toney the Complete striker
Having said that, Thomas Frank has given Arsenal the perfect reason to push for a Toney deal. After Brentford’s 0-0 draw with Brighton on Wednesday night, the manager took some time to discuss the development of Toney.
When asked what makes the England international exceptional, the Danish tactician answered,
“It’s the few percentages in every area, but it’s a high level: link-up play, hold-up play, the way he attacks with his team-mates and his finishing are some of the things he’s good at. It’s that consistency and performing at the highest level that you need to do.
“Sometimes he is such a good finisher but he likes, sometimes, to go down to touch the ball too much. If you’re down there, it’s difficult to get up there and score. That’s the only little thing: remember it’s in the 18-yard box you score your goals and mainly the six-yard box.”
Arsenal are looking for a top striker who is already the complete package but also someone with room to grow and develop further. It sounds like Thomas Frank believes Toney is the ideal man for the job.
Given Frank’s assertions, the fact that several teams want the 27-year-old, and his availability for as little as £50 million, how could Arsenal pass up this transfer opportunity?