Tottenham are leading the race to sign an experienced striker that Thomas Frank knows well in January, and we can reveal that the Spurs boss has already had direct talks with the striker.
Ivan Toney could be set for a sensational return to the Premier League in January, after sources confirm the English striker’s burning desire to secure regular game time and cement his place in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad until 2026.
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The 29-year-old, who swapped Brentford for Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli in a £40 million deal last summer, has impressed with his goals in the Middle East, but still doesn’t feel at ease in the region.
A permanent mid-season transfer is out of the question – clubs are hesitant about a £30 million price in January – while Toney risks a significant tax bill if his lucrative Saudi contract ends early.
A pure loan, or a loan agreement with an option to buy, is the only viable option, allowing Al-Ahli to protect his investment while Toney chases top-flight football.
Tottenham Hotspur are leading the race for Toney. Manager Thomas Frank, who coaches Toney to stardom at Brentford, has already had direct talks with the player.
The relationship between the two remains strong, and few players will come with a greater guarantee of success in Frank’s Spurs team than Toney. The attacker knows the Dane’s system and tactical requirements intimately.
According to sources, Spurs see him as the ideal short-term solution to their striker problems, and he could potentially replace the inconsistent Richarlison. Including a binding purchase clause in the summer could make the deal more attractive to Al-Ahli and secure their approval.
West Ham and Everton are keeping an eye on the situation, but Tottenham are favourites
West Ham have also come into the picture, after announcing Tony’s possibility of a change of club.
With Niclas Fullkrug struggling with form and game time and determined to leave the club in January, Nuno Espirito Santo sees the Englishman as a proven goal threat who could ignite their season.
The Hammers’ proactive approach signals serious intent as they try to turn around their disappointing season.
Everton, long linked to Toney, are more cautious. David Moyes admires the striker, but is careful not to disturb the harmony of the team. With Beto and Thierno Barry already vying for places, sources reveal that Moyes is reluctant to hoard strikers and risk turmoil on the bench.
The Toffees can still trade if damage occurs or if a sale is secured, but at the moment, team harmony weighs more heavily than enthusiasm.
No deal has been made, but momentum is building. Tony’s representatives are working hard, and Al-Ahli is open to a loan that secures their investment of £40 million.
For a player who scored 20 goals in a Premier League season as recently as in the 2022/23 campaign, the upcoming winter window represents a turning point in his career, and a chance to remind Tuchel why he belongs on the biggest stage.
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