Tottenham Transfer Blown as Ivan Toney Off-Limits in January

Ivan Toney transfer speculation continues to swirl, but hopes of a January move to Tottenham have taken a major hit after Al-Ahli’s director made it clear the England striker is not for sale this winter.

Ivan Toney’s Blockbuster Move to Al-Ahli

Ivan Toney’s transfer from Brentford to Al-Ahli in 2024 was one of the most talked-about switches of the year. Worth around £40 million, the move to the Saudi Pro League was seen as the start of a new era for the prolific forward, who had just hit his prime in English football. Many pundits believed Toney would struggle to adapt, but the striker quickly silenced critics with a remarkable debut season.

Impact in Saudi Arabia and Al-Ahli’s Reluctance to Sell

Toney’s first season in Saudi Arabia was nothing short of sensational. He scored 23 league goals in 30 appearances, finishing just behind Cristiano Ronaldo and helping Al-Ahli lift the AFC Champions League trophy. Surrounded by stars like Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino, Toney led his side to new heights. This season, his red-hot form has continued, netting 11 goals in 15 matches, and Al-Ahli have already claimed the Saudi Super Cup.

Given these performances, it is no surprise that Rui Pedro Braz, Al-Ahli’s director, ruled out a January departure. “Ivan Toney is a top player, a top striker. The rumours about his exit are not based in reality,” Braz told reporters. “We’re counting on him—there’s no reason to discuss a transfer in November.”

Tottenham’s Striker Search Hits a Wall

Tottenham, in need of attacking reinforcements following injuries to Dominic Solanke and Randal Kolo Muani, reportedly identified Ivan Toney as a key target for the winter window. Manager Thomas Frank, who worked with Toney at Brentford, was believed to be keen on a reunion. But with Al-Ahli’s firm stance, Spurs will have to reassess their options in the market.

Interest from Manchester United and the Premier League

Manchester United had also been linked with Toney, especially after injuries to their forwards. However, according to talkSPORT’s Ben Jacobs, United’s interest is lukewarm at best, with the club choosing to rely on existing options like Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha. Unless another major striker leaves Old Trafford, a move for Toney is unlikely.

Ivan Toney’s England Ambitions and International Prospects

Before his Saudi adventure, Toney was a Premier League standout, scoring 36 goals in 83 appearances for Brentford. His 2022/23 season, in particular, saw him net 20 goals from 33 matches. The striker’s move abroad was intended as a fresh challenge, but he remains ambitious about returning to the England fold ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Although he made his England debut in 2023 and contributed at Euro 2024, Toney has not been called up for recent Three Lions squads. He continues to believe that a return to the Premier League would boost his chances under Thomas Tuchel, but for now, his path is blocked.

Toney Reflects on His Journey

In December 2024, Toney explained his decision to move to Saudi Arabia: “People look at this league differently, but I stepped into it knowing it’s still a high standard. I wanted something a bit different. It’s a different culture, but I can blend in anywhere.” His journey has seen him adapt and excel, but the striker still harbours hopes of returning to English football at the highest level.

What’s Next for Ivan Toney and Tottenham?

With Al-Ahli refusing to entertain offers and Toney thriving in Saudi Arabia, Tottenham’s plans for the January transfer window face significant disruption. Other clubs may continue to monitor the situation, but barring a dramatic change, Toney will be staying put until at least the summer.

For more news on football transfers and the latest updates, visit for more news.

Opinion: Toney’s Bright Future Despite Transfer Setback

Ivan Toney’s unwillingness to settle for mid-table comfort and his ambition to play at the top is evident. While Spurs and United may be frustrated, Al-Ahli are right to hold on to one of the Saudi Pro League’s best strikers. If Toney continues this form, a return to England feels inevitable—just not this January.