Ivan Toney, the talented striker for Brentford, may still secure a lucrative move to a top Premier League club despite his recent eight-month ban for breaching Football Association (FA) betting rules.
This development has piqued the interest of several Premier League giants, including Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United.
Toney’s impressive record of scoring 20 goals in 33 games this season has made him an attractive prospect.
Although the ban prevents Toney from playing until January, it may not dissuade potential suitors from making offers before the transfer window opens.
Clubs could be motivated to secure his services ahead of their rivals by striking a deal prior to January. Toney will be able to train with his club from September, further bolstering his appeal.
Why Brentford needs to act quickly
Brentford, aware that Toney’s contract is entering its final two years, may have considered selling him this summer. However, the ban has not extinguished his chances of a move.
The length of the ban, imposed by an independent panel, may be appealed by either Toney or the FA. Until the written reasons behind the decision are published, shedding light on the nature of the bets, it remains uncertain whether an appeal will be pursued.
It’s worth noting that the FA intends to seek FIFA’s approval to extend the ban worldwide, which would prevent Toney from going on loan or moving abroad.
However, the outcome of this request is yet to be determined.
In response to the news, Toney expressed his disappointment on Instagram, stating that he would be unable to play for the next eight months.
He refrained from making further comments until the written reasons for the ban were made public. Despite the challenging circumstances, Toney remains focused on returning to the game he loves next season.
Overall, while Toney’s ban poses a temporary setback, it has not diminished the interest from top Premier League clubs.
The situation remains fluid, pending the potential appeal and publication of the ban’s written reasons.