Brentford transfer guide: Ivan Toney and David Raya replacements the priority for astute Bees
rentford have become synonymous with smart transfer market strategy.
You only have to look at their signings over the last few years, such as Ben Mee, Kristoffer Ajer and Ivan Toney, to see their ability of finding a gem at below market rate.
It is to their credit that Brentford came so close Europe this season and the Bees have plans to strengthen again this summer.
Top priority
A striker. Only Erling Haaland and Harry Kane scored more Premier League goals than Toney this season, but his eight-month ban has ruled him out until January.
Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa have chipped in with important goals this season and Kevin Schade could help fill the void left by Toney, but Thomas Frank has said Brentford could look to the market to add more goals.
What else they need
With captain Pontus Jansson leaving for Malmo, Brentford could do with another centre-back to provide competition with Ethan Pinnock, Zanka Jorgensen, Mee and Ajer.
Goalkeeper David Raya is almost certain to depart after a fantastic season and Brentford are already succession-planning for their No1 spot.
A midfield playmaker might also be welcome, given Denmark star Mikkel Damsgaard failed to impress this season.
Possible ins
Brentford are close to agreeing a £10.4m deal to sign Freiburg goalkeeper Mark Flekken to replace Raya. Flekken is Netherland No2 behind Jasper Cillessen.
The Bees have also been linked with Coventry striker Viktor Gyokeres to fill in for Toney. Gyokeres is valued at £25m and could be on the move after Coventry lost the Championship Play-Off final.
Brentford are also set to complete the £21m permanent signing of Schade from Freiburg.
Viktor Gyokeres could be Ivan Toney’s replacement up front
/ PAPossible outs
Brentford want more than £40m for Raya, who has interest from Chelsea, Tottenham and Manchester United and looks set to be the most high-profile departure.
Jansson is returning to Sweden with Malmo and Brentford have confirmed winger Saman Ghoddos will leave on a free transfer when his contract expires this summer.
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