Ivan Toney Eyes Tottenham Move Amid England Ambitions
Ivan Toney’s desire to secure a Tottenham transfer is intensifying as the England international considers a Premier League return after a high-profile spell with Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League. The prolific striker, who made headlines with his £40 million switch from Brentford last summer, is now at the center of renewed transfer speculation as he looks to reignite his England career and reunite with former manager Thomas Frank.
Ivan Toney and Tottenham: The Next Big Move?
The prospect of Ivan Toney joining Tottenham Hotspur has gained traction, with multiple reports suggesting the forward is keen on making North London his new home. The Spurs’ frontline has been plagued by injuries, with Dominic Solanke sidelined by an ankle issue and Randal Kolo Muani recovering from a fractured jaw. In this scenario, Toney’s proven Premier League pedigree and finishing prowess make him an ideal candidate for the club’s attacking needs.
Moreover, Toney’s relationship with Thomas Frank, under whom he thrived at Brentford, adds an extra dimension to the potential move. Frank’s mentorship played a pivotal role in Toney’s rise from the Championship to England recognition. The Danish manager is reportedly eager to work with his former striker again, believing that Toney’s skills and work ethic would perfectly complement Tottenham’s current project.
Al-Ahli Reluctant to Let Toney Leave
Despite Toney’s interest, Al-Ahli’s hierarchy remains firm in their desire to retain their star player. The 28-year-old has enjoyed a blistering start to the Saudi Pro League season, netting 11 goals in 15 appearances and quickly becoming a fan favorite. Al-Ahli’s reluctance to sell is compounded by the financial implications of a transfer; Toney would face a significant wage reduction due to tax differences if he returned to England, further complicating negotiations.
Expert Opinions and the Thomas Frank Connection
Former Tottenham midfielder David Bentley has weighed in, telling Sky Sports that Toney’s ambition to play under Thomas Frank again could be a decisive factor: “For him, to go and play at the stadium with Thomas Frank, that’s the perfect destination. If he wants to get into the England team, it’s not about money—it’s about putting himself in the World Cup squad. Tottenham could do with him, and England as well.”
Bentley added that Toney’s experience and goal-scoring record make him a natural fit for Spurs, especially as the club navigates injuries and inconsistent form among its forwards. “He’s a great player, and scoring in the Premier League isn’t easy. The way he plays the game, the goals he scores—Tottenham has to be the No.1 destination for him.”
England Dream Fuels Ivan Toney’s Tottenham Hopes
For Ivan Toney, the prospect of joining Tottenham is about more than club football. The striker is determined to reclaim his spot in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Toney made his England debut in 2023, scored his first goal against Belgium in 2024, and played a vital role at Euro 2024, assisting Harry Kane’s extra-time winner and converting his penalty in the quarter-final shootout against Switzerland.
However, since moving to Saudi Arabia, Toney has fallen down the pecking order, missing out on the last three England camps. His only international appearance in 2025 was a late cameo in a 3-1 friendly defeat to Senegal. According to sources close to the player, a Premier League return—particularly to a club like Tottenham—could provide the platform needed to re-establish himself in the national team, though competition remains fierce.
Other Premier League Clubs Monitoring Toney
While Tottenham appears to be Toney’s preferred destination, the striker is not without alternatives. Everton are reportedly monitoring his situation, and Manchester United have also been linked, although their striker plans may hinge on other targets. As reporter Ben Jacobs noted on talkSPORT, “We’ve heard links with Tottenham due to the Thomas Frank connection. Manchester United have other priorities, but if there’s movement, Toney could come into play.”
Financial and Competitive Challenges Ahead
Negotiating a return for Ivan Toney is fraught with challenges. Aside from Al-Ahli’s reluctance and the impact of wage differences, Tottenham must also contend with interest from rival Premier League clubs. Furthermore, even a successful move does not guarantee Toney an England recall, with Tuchel having a wealth of forward options at his disposal.
Opinion: Toney’s Move Makes Sense for Spurs and England
In my view, a Premier League comeback at Tottenham could be the springboard Ivan Toney needs to recapture his best form and force his way back into England contention. His proven goal-scoring ability, combined with his rapport with Thomas Frank, make this a natural fit for both club and player. If Spurs can overcome the financial and competitive obstacles, this transfer could be one of the most astute moves of the winter window.
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