Ivan Toney 'agrees transfer' as Arsenal receive update on summer switch

Brentford forward Ivan Toney appears destined for Saudi Arabia, ending any chance of the England international joining Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta's side had been linked with a move for the ex-Newcastle United forward for the best part of 18 months. With Eddie Nketiah's future appearing to be away from the Emirates Stadium, the Gunners could be set for a campaign without a recognised out-and-out striker.

They have been persisting with the deployment of Kai Havertz or Gabriel Jesus as a ''false nine' since last season. While the duo have often impressed in the role, many have tipped the North Londoners to sign a specialised forward like Toney.

With Toney's contract at the G-Tech Community Stadium expiring next summer, this year was Brentford's final opportunity to sell him for big money. He would be able to depart West London for free if he chose to run down his deal.

It now appears Toney, who played a key role for England at Euro 2024, is destined for a move to the Middle East. His pending move to the Saudi Pro League will all but end Arsenal's interest in the forward.

Reports from GiveMeSport understand personal terms have been agreed between Toney and Al-Ahli. The division's vice-chairman Saad Al-Lazeez and sporting director Michael Emenalo, are reportedly in London to complete the deal.

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For two consecutive Premier League weekends, Toney was left out of Brentford's squad. He was absent for the win against Crystal Palace and the defeat away to Liverpool.

When asked about Toney's absence, West Londoners' boss Thomas Frank said: "The status is the same as last week. Things are going on with transfer speculation so the decision is the same. He is training well, there is no problem. I'd rather focus on the game and the players that are playing instead of talking about him."

Arsenal have signed David Raya permanently and welcomed Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori to North London, while Mikel Merino is understood to have completed a medical ahead of a move to the Gunners from Real Sociedad.

When asked if he is happy with the makeup of his squad, Arteta said: "If everybody is fit, yes. But that is why we need good availability from everybody. We don't have 23 outfield players and normally you have to be equipped like that. We have to trust in our academy players and make sure we look after the ones we have to be robust."