Ivan Toney: The Striker at the Centre of January Transfer Speculation

Introduction: A Star Striker’s Crossroads

Ivan Toney has emerged as one of the most discussed names in football transfer circles, with the 29-year-old linked with a January return to the Premier League. The English striker’s potential move back to England has captured attention as multiple top-flight clubs vie for his signature, though significant obstacles remain in securing a deal.

Current Situation at Al-Ahli

Ivan Toney has been exceptional since joining Al-Ahli from Brentford in a deal worth £40 million last year, establishing himself as a prolific scorer in the Saudi Pro League. The 29-year-old has scored 41 goals in 59 appearances for Al Ahli since joining in a £40m deal from Brentford in the summer of 2024. Despite his on-pitch success, speculation about a Premier League comeback has intensified.

The Premier League Interest

Several English clubs have expressed interest in bringing Toney back. Aston Villa were going to look at him, whilst from an affordability perspective, Spurs are probably the front runners. Everton are one of the teams to have looked at his situation, highlighting the widespread interest from clubs seeking a proven goalscorer.

Financial Barriers and Wage Concerns

The primary stumbling block in any potential transfer remains financial. Toney is willing to take a major pay cut, accepting a wage of £200,000 per week – around half of what he currently earns in Saudi Arabia. However, there are question marks about whether he wants to leave Saudi Arabia, because he’s getting paid a lot of money over there, and he’s had second thoughts about coming back to England.

World Cup Aspirations

The 29-year-old has informed Saudi club Al-Ahli that he wants to leave in January, with the sole aim of fighting his way back into the England squad ahead of the World Cup next year. Yet sources close to Toney acknowledge he is unlikely to force his way into England boss Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup plans even if he is playing in the Premier League, casting doubt on whether a return would achieve his international ambitions.

Conclusion: An Uncertain Future

Ivan Toney’s situation represents one of the January transfer window’s most intriguing sagas. Whilst multiple Premier League clubs remain interested, the combination of his substantial wages in Saudi Arabia and uncertainty about his England prospects complicates matters. Everton and Villa were the two clubs who were really having a look at him, but now they’re going to have to look elsewhere it seems. For football fans and clubs alike, the coming weeks will reveal whether this talented striker returns to English football or continues his lucrative career in the Middle East.