Frank insists Johnson stays with Tottenham amid Crystal Palace rumours

Brentford manager Thomas Frank anticipates Brennan Johnson taking part in Tottenham's New Year's Day clash with his side, even as reports emerge of an agreement to transfer the Welsh striker to Crystal Palace.

UK news sources such as BBC and Sky Sports indicate that the Eagles' £35 million ($47 million) proposal for the 24-year-old has been approved by Spurs, though Johnson himself has not yet endorsed the switch.

Besides this, the ex-Nottingham Forest wide player is catching the eye of Bournemouth, who appear poised to see their main goal-getter Antoine Semenyo depart for Manchester City shortly after the January window opens.

"Brennan has acted like a model professional," Frank noted during his Tuesday press briefing ahead of the game.

"His training sessions have been strong. I am certain he will be fit and ready to feature versus Brentford."

Brought in from Forest for £47.5 million during the 2023 summer transfer period, Johnson led Spurs' goal tally last campaign with 18 strikes, one of which was the match-winner in the Europa League final triumph over Manchester United, lifting the team's 17-year trophy drought.

That said, since Frank stepped in for Ange Postecoglou over the off-season, Johnson has mostly served as a substitute to Mohammed Kudus on the right flank.

This term, across 22 outings in various tournaments, he has netted four goals.

Crystal Palace head coach Oliver Glasner has openly expressed his wish for additional attacking reinforcements.

Following a promising beginning to the season, Glasner's squad has drawn blanks in their past five fixtures, with a demanding calendar spanning three contests wearing them down.

"Honestly, if you observe our matches, the areas we must improve are obvious, and that choice lies with Crystal Palace," Glasner commented.

"When goals keep eluding us despite efforts, yes. Still, my role is to motivate the squad, back them up, and maintain optimism."