Chelsea transfer target Ivan Toney is “shocked” that Brentford have slapped an £80m+ price tag on his head ahead of the January transfer window, according to 90min.com.

The website reports that the 27-year-old fears he could be priced out of a move away from the Bees and he is “prepared” to force through a transfer if it comes to that.

It is believed that the Blues have held “talks” with Toney’s representatives already but his valuation could prove to be a major obstacle.

Sources, including Fabrizio Romano, have claimed that Brentford may be willing to let the striker leave for around £60m.

Toney’s contract expires in 2025 so his value will only depreciate between now and next summer, so there was hope that the cost of the transfer would not be excessive.

Brentford have a history of playing hardball

Back in the summer, the Bees tried to hold out for £40m as they looked to offload David Raya. Talks with Tottenham and Bayern Munich reportedly collapsed due to their asking price.

However, Thomas Frank’s side ultimately relented, as he left for Arsenal on loan. The Gunners could ultimately end up paying £30m if Raya joins them on a permanent basis but it is still below what his parent club originally wanted.

Chelsea will be hoping that there is a similar climbdown over Toney’s transfer fee as well.

Will Chelsea have competition for Toney?

90min.com claim that Arsenal are also interested in the England international, having spoken to the player’s representatives along with Chelsea. However, there are question marks over whether they can afford Toney due to FFP concerns.

Tottenham have also been mentioned as potential suitors in other reports, but there have been suggestions that they may pursue Feyenoord’s Santiago Gimenez instead, which could leave the coast clear for Mauricio Pochettino’s side to sign Toney.