Frank hopes to keep Brentford stars as deadline approaches

Thomas Frank says he does not expect any new players in before the transfer window closes next week – but knows he could yet lose one or two to last-minute deals.

Brentford have made six summer signings and the Danish boss do not expect any more incomings, even if one or more of his coveted stars is snapped up in the coming days.

Three of the players attracting interest from other clubs have all trained this week and are available for selection against Birmingham City in Brentford’s Championship opener on Saturday, Frank says.

Sergi Canos – the subject of a £6.5m bid from Russian side Krasnodar – last season’s top scorer Neal Maupay and winger Ollie Watkins could all feature at Griffin Park at the weekend, Brentford’s manager has confirmed.

New signing Joel Valencia is also in Frank’s plans, providing the club can obtain international clearance for the Ecuadorian.

The 24-year-old only had his first Bees training sessions this week following his £1.8 m move from Piast Gliwice in Poland, and Frank likes what he sees.

But Said Benrahma, who is also a player wanted by other clubs, is ruled out with injury.

“I want to hold on to those players, of course I want to do that, if we can,” Frank said.

“My aim is that after the transfer window is closed next Thursday we have a stronger squad than we had when we finished last season.”