Tottenham Hotspur is on the lookout for a reliable goal-scorer and has set their sights on Ivan Toney. However, it appears the striker will likely stay in Saudi Arabia. Spurs have struggled with consistent goal-scoring this season and are exploring options for the January transfer window. Reports suggest they may consider offloading either Dominic Solanke or Richarlison to fund a move for the former Brentford star.
The Challenge of Signing Toney
Acquiring Toney poses several challenges. The primary hurdle is his contract with Al-Ahli, which binds him until the summer of 2028. He is reportedly earning a substantial salary, making it difficult for clubs to negotiate. Spurs face an uphill battle against both Al-Ahli’s reluctance to sell and Toney’s apparent comfort at his current club. With over two years left on his deal, Al-Ahli holds the upper hand in this situation.
Rivals Exploring Toney’s Availability
Tottenham is not the only club interested in Toney. Everton has made inquiries, and West Ham is also circling the striker. Both clubs are in urgent need of goals from their forwards, making Toney an attractive option. If we liken strikers to faucets, Everton and West Ham are running dry and at risk of overflowing if they don’t address their scoring issues soon.
International Aspirations and Strategy
Toney’s ambitions for international play add another layer of complexity. With England securing a spot in the upcoming World Cup and Harry Kane remaining the first-choice center-forward, Toney may find opportunities limited. A return to the Premier League could serve as a pragmatic move for Toney if he sees it as a quicker path back into the national team and into manager Thomas Tuchel’s plans.
Weighing Options Going Forward
Tottenham faces a difficult balancing act. They must determine whether to invest significantly now to secure more goals or continue relying on their current squad while waiting for more favorable circumstances. Everton and West Ham are grappling with similar dilemmas: spend heavily to address immediate needs or push forward with their existing players.
Unless unexpected changes occur in Saudi Arabia’s transfer policies, Toney’s move in January seems unlikely. Spurs might have to consider a Plan B, as trying to lure a player from such a lucrative contract is akin to attempting to fit a rhinoceros into a phone booth.
Conclusion
As the transfer window approaches, Tottenham, Everton, and West Ham will need to assess their strategies carefully. The pursuit of Ivan Toney highlights the ongoing search for effective goal-scoring solutions in the Premier League.