Al Ahli Blocks Toney's January Premier League Move

Ivan Toney, the prolific striker currently with Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli, faces an uncertain path back to the Premier League amid growing speculation about a potential January transfer. While several English clubs have expressed interest in the 29-year-old Englishman, Al Ahli's sporting director Rui Pedro Braz has firmly dismissed any possibility of a midseason departure, stating that rumors of an exit are unfounded and that the club plans to retain him through the winter window.

Toney joined Al Ahli in August 2024 on a four-year contract, leaving Brentford after a standout spell that included 36 goals in 85 Premier League appearances. Since arriving in Saudi Arabia, he has thrived, scoring 41 goals and providing eight assists in 59 matches overall. This season alone, the forward has netted 11 goals and added a handful of assists in 15 outings across competitions, showcasing his aerial prowess, finishing ability, and playmaking skills at 1.85 meters tall. His form has reignited talk of a return to England, driven by his ambition to reclaim a spot in the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup under coach Thomas Tuchel, who prioritizes players from Europe's top leagues.