Ivan Toney transfer audition date set as Arsenal target nears Premier League return

Ivan Toney's return to Premier League action is fast approaching as the striker nears the end of his eight-month ban.

The Brentford striker last played for Brentford on May 6 in a 1-0 defeat at Liverpool but is now ready to represent his current employers once again after serving his time on the sidelines for breaching betting rules.

Toney will be available for selection from January 17 onwards, ensuring he will be able to start for the Bees in their Premier League fixture: a home clash with Nottingham Forest on January 20.

This game could provide Mikel Arteta and Arsenal with a closer look at the striker's fitness levels and general condition after going a lengthy period of time without playing competitive football.

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Toney is understood to be a player of interest to the Gunners as Arteta looks to bolster his attacking options at the club, though recent reports have suggested Brentford will demand £100million for their prolific marksman. Brentford boss Thomas Frank has continued to play down the possibility of Toney moving on this month and the player himself has admitted he feels must «repay» the club for sticking by him during a difficult period in his career.

«Thomas Frank has been nothing but the biggest help I could have asked for — the whole club has,» said the 27-year-old. «From putting on extra sessions for me, from taking their time out to put a session on and go outside when it's raining when they're not supposed to be in. These kind of things, I have a lot to repay them and I can't wait to try and do that.»

Should Arsenal fail to