'He is close' - Arsenal sent clear Ivan Toney message by Brentford boss Thomas Frank

Brentford manager Thomas Frank believes Arsenal target Ivan Toney is on the verge of becoming a «complete player» as the striker continues to evolve his game. Toney has scored four goals and provided one assist in the 12 Premier League games he has featured in this season, enjoying an instant impact upon his return from a betting ban.

Arsenal were of course heavily linked with a move for the ex-Peterborough United star in January, though the Gunners opted against testing the Bees' resolve in the form of a bid. Brentford appear resigned to losing the services of their talisman this summer, however, with only one year remaining on his current contract.

Should Mikel Arteta's side decide to reignite their interest in the England international after the current campaign, Frank is of the opinion Arsenal would be signing a player at the peak of his powers.

«I think he is close to being a complete player in many ways,» the Brentford boss told TNT Sports on Wednesday evening. Explaining what makes Toney so special, the Dane added: «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."

Also of the view Arsenal would reap the rewards of recruiting Toney this summer, Peterborough chairman Darragh MacAnthony recently toldSky Sports: «Put him in an Arsenal