Tottenham Hotspur have been handed a significant boost in their pursuit of striker Ivan Toney, with a January transfer now appearing increasingly likely. The North London club are seeking attacking reinforcements, and the former Brentford forward has emerged as a primary target.
Leeds United Suffer Transfer Blow
In a development that will disappoint Leeds United fans, the Championship club have been effectively ruled out of the race to sign Toney. According to fresh reports from TeamTALK, a potential loan move to Elland Road has been deemed financially unviable due to the substantial costs involved.
The report further indicates that Toney himself would not be interested in a move to Leeds United, even if the financial obstacles could be overcome. This represents a fatal blow to any hopes the Yorkshire club might have had of securing the striker's services.
Tottenham's Striker Search Intensifies
Spurs' need for attacking reinforcement has become increasingly urgent. Manager Thomas Frank is currently navigating injuries to key forwards Dominic Solanke and Randal Kolo Muani, while Brazilian international Richarlison has struggled for consistent form in front of goal.
Intriguingly, the report suggests that Toney could be available for a permanent transfer fee of just £25 million, rather than a temporary loan arrangement. However, potential suitors must contend with the significant challenge of meeting the player's substantial wage demands.
Frank Reunion Could Be Key
The existing relationship between Toney and Tottenham manager Thomas Frank could prove decisive in the transfer saga. The pair previously worked together successfully at Brentford, where Toney established himself as one of the Premier League's most formidable strikers.
TeamTALK claims that Frank has already held personal talks with the 29-year-old striker, strengthening Tottenham's position in the negotiations. This personal connection could give Spurs a crucial advantage over other interested clubs, including West Ham and Everton.
Former Tottenham player David Bentley recently emphasised the perfect fit, telling Sky Sports: "He's a great player. Scoring goals in the Premier League is not easy and the way he plays the game, scores goals... he's got to go to Tottenham, hasn't he? Under Thomas Frank, he had a great time with him at Brentford."
Toney's potential return to English football is partly motivated by his international ambitions. Having joined Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli in 2024 for £34 million, the striker has been in impressive form this season, scoring 11 goals in 15 appearances. However, he likely needs to prove himself in a top European league to secure a place in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for next year's World Cup.
While financial hurdles remain, the path appears increasingly clear for Tottenham to secure their primary striking target in the January transfer window, potentially solving their attacking woes for the second half of the season.
