Ivan Toney’s career trajectory has changed dramatically over the past 18 months. Toney, a former versatile Brentford striker and rising star in the England squad, shocked many when he left the Premier League for Saudi Arabia in the summer of 2024. The £40m move to Al Ahly was one of the headline transfers of that window, demonstrating both the growing appeal of the Saudi Pro League and the financial incentives to attract top talent from Europe.
Now, as the January transfer window approaches, speculation is mounting about his return to England due to his good form overseas and the looming 2026 World Cup.
Living in Saudi Arabia: Successes and Challenges
Tony’s time in Saudi Arabia was nothing short of prolific. Since joining Al Ahly, he has played 59 games, scoring 41 goals and providing eight assists, cementing his place as one of the league’s best performers. In his first season, he scored 30 goals in 44 games and was called up to Thomas Tuchel’s England squad. Despite limited minutes, with just two friendly matches against Senegal, his international ambitions remain alive, although he is increasingly dependent on a return to Europe’s top flight.
However, this move came with a trade-off. Toney has reportedly signed a lucrative contract worth £400,000 a week after tax (up to £500,000 including bonuses), but the financial windfall is a major obstacle to his return to the Premier League.
To match his income in Saudi Arabia, including UK tax, clubs would need to offer close to £900,000 a week, a figure few clubs would be willing to meet.
Premier League Interest: Who will be in the race?
Despite the financial hurdles, several Premier League clubs have expressed interest in Tony’s return. Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham are said to be monitoring his situation. Spurs in particular appear keen, driven by an injury to their key forward and the prospect of reuniting Toney with manager Thomas Frank, who developed him into a top-class striker at Brentford.
Former Spurs player David Bentley publicly supported the move, saying Tottenham was the “perfect destination” for Toney to revive his England hopes.
Manchester United were also rumored to be interested in signing Toney before his move to Saudi Arabia, but they could be back in contention as they battle for summer signing Benjamin Sesco. However, United’s recent investment and depth of squad mean a January transfer is unlikely. West Ham, who are in a relegation battle and desperate for goals, are reportedly exploring a loan deal, but covering Toney’s wages remains a sticking point.
England factor: World Cup coming up
Tony’s motivation for returning to the Premier League is not only financial, but also strategic. With the 2026 World Cup just around the corner, he knows it is important to play in Europe’s elite leagues to catch the eye of Tuchel.
Outside of Harry Kane, England’s striker pool is sparse, and Toney’s proven Premier League goal-scoring ability makes him an attractive option. But his recent absence from the national team highlights the risks: staying in Saudi Arabia could cost him a spot in the World Cup.
Financial and logistical barriers
The biggest obstacle in any transaction is money. Given Toney’s salary and the Saudi tax penalties for leaving early, a January move is unlikely unless Al Ahly agree to wage subsidies or a creative financing scheme comes to fruition.
Still, Premier League clubs will need to consider whether the short-term benefits justify such significant spending, especially when Champions League qualification or retention is at stake.
Tony’s POV: A calculated gamble
Toney has publicly insisted he never misses the Premier League and is focused on performing well wherever he plays. However, reports suggest he is particularly open to returning to Tottenham and could develop in Frank’s system as before.
His comments about adapting to a different culture and enjoying the Saudi experience suggest the player is comfortable abroad, but his international football ambitions may tip the scales eventually.
Conclusion: A story worth watching
Ivan Toney’s story encapsulates modern football’s dilemma of balancing financial security with competitive ambition. His success in Saudi Arabia is testament to his quality, but the Premier League remains the stage for global recognition and selection for the England squad.
Whether January’s move comes to fruition will depend on complex negotiations and Mr. Toney’s willingness to sacrifice revenue for opportunity. For now, whispers of a return add further intrigue to an already drama-filled transfer window.