Ivan Toney’s move from Brentford to Al-Ahli in 2024 shocked many, but the £40 million switch quickly proved its value. Below you will see information about is news which has been summarized The Football Insight.
Instead of slowing down, the England striker delivered one of the best debut seasons in Saudi football, scoring 23 league goals just two behind Cristiano Ronaldo. His performances helped Al-Ahli dominate the domestic scene and win the AFC Champions League, silencing anyone who thought he went abroad for an easy ride.
This season, Toney has continued at the same blistering pace. With 11 goals in 15 matches, he has established himself as one of the league’s most influential players. His partnership with top talents like Riyad Mahrez strengthened Al-Ahli’s attack and elevated expectations around the club.
The strong start also boosted Toney’s leadership status in the dressing room. As a result, speculation about a January return to England began to grow. With Premier League clubs searching for strikers, Toney’s name kept resurfacing. But his importance at Al-Ahli made a winter exit far from simple.
A Clear Message: Toney Isn’t Leaving
Al-Ahli director Rui Pedro Braz shut down the rumours with unusual clarity. He stated that talk of Toney leaving in January “is not based on reality,” stressing the club’s commitment to keeping their star striker. His message left little room for negotiation and showed just how vital Toney has become. This is bad news for Tottenham, who had been exploring ways to boost their attack after injuries left them short of options.
With Dominic Solanke and Randal Kolo Muani sidelined, Spurs hoped Toney could be the quick fix they needed. His Premier League experience and connection to former manager Thomas Frank only strengthened their interest. But Braz’s public stance means Tottenham must shift their attention elsewhere. The club needs reinforcements, yet Toney once viewed as the perfect January option is now completely off the table.
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A Missed Opportunity for Manchester United Too
Manchester United were also monitoring Toney, especially after Benjamin Sesko’s injury created uncertainty upfront. However, reports suggest there has been no movement from Old Trafford either. United appear committed to Sesko and Matheus Cunha, only considering a new striker if Joshua Zirkzee leaves.
While Toney has long been admired in the Premier League, his Saudi success has complicated the possibility of a quick return. Clubs may still keep him on future shortlist, but his January availability is no longer realistic. For now, United must continue with their internal options before exploring new targets.
England Future in Doubt as Time Runs Out
Before moving abroad, Toney built a strong Premier League reputation with 36 goals for Brentford, including an impressive 20-goal season in 2022/23. His decision to join Al-Ahli offered a new challenge, and he embraced it fully, praising the facilities, teammates, and competitive standard.
However, his England prospects have suffered. Despite scoring for the national team and appearing at Euro 2024, he has not been selected for the last three camps under Thomas Tuchel. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Toney believes a return to England would boost his chances of making the squad.
But with Al-Ahli refusing to negotiate, that comeback will have to wait. Unless something changes dramatically, Toney’s goals will continue coming in Saudi Arabia well past January 2026, leaving his Premier League and England ambitions on hold. Follow footballcoasters.co.uk for weekly deep dives into football’s biggest story.