Arsenal 'are ready to step up their interest' in signing Ivan Toney in January

Arsenal are ready to step up their interest in Brentford striker Ivan Toney, according to a report.

The Gunners are believed to be looking to sign a striker in the January transfer window to keep their hopes of pushing for the title alive with both Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah struggling in front of goal in recent games.

Mikel Arteta's side sit fifth in the Premier League table, dropping out of the Champions League places following their 2-2 draw with North London rivals Tottenham on Sunday.

They had twice led in the game and spurned a number of opportunities - particularly through Jesus and Nketiah - to add to their goal tally at the Emirates.

According to the Mirror, Brentford are willing to part ways with the forward, but want £60million for his services if he's to leave in the January transfer window.

Toney is currently unavailable for selection after the 27-year-old was banned from all football activity for eight months on May 17 after pleading guilty to 232 of the 262 betting charges brought against him by the FA last year.

The England forward, who made his debut for Gareth Southgate's side earlier this year, is expected to be able to play for the club again on January 16 2024, with him now back in full training after a four-month absence.

He has also been seen attending Brentford games, watching on from the crowd.

It is reported that Gunners boss Mikel Arteta wants to bring a proven goal scorer into his squad with a physical presence, and Toney fits the desire profile having netted 20 times in the Premier League last season.

Former Arsenal man-turned-pundit Paul Merson, meanwhile, has expressed his 'worry' over Arsenal's options in attack, claiming that Arteta's side should sign Toney in January after insisting their