Journalist: Tottenham Hotspur set for major January transfer blow | OneFootball

Tottenham Cool Interest in Former Brentford Striker Despite Frank Link

Spurs and Chelsea Linked with Potential January Move

Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a possible January swoop for Al-Ahli forward Ivan Toney, though sources suggest such a move remains unlikely. TeamTalk report that both Spurs and Chelsea are monitoring the situation, but there is “no genuine sign of Toney moving back to the Premier League at the moment.”

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The England international joined Al-Ahli in the summer of 2024 for £40 million after leaving Brentford and has since thrived in the Saudi Pro League. His record of 38 goals and seven assists in 54 appearances has turned him into one of the league’s standout players, helping his club win both the AFC Champions League Elite and Saudi Super Cup.

Frank Connection Sparks Speculation

Toney’s former manager, Thomas Frank, now at Tottenham, has inevitably reignited speculation of a reunion. The Dane was instrumental in developing Toney during their time together at Brentford, and some within the Spurs fanbase have viewed the link as logical given their need for another proven forward.

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However, TeamTalk insider Dean Jones played down those expectations, saying: “There have been some whispers about him going to Spurs. Obviously, there is the Thomas Frank link from Brentford, but I do not get the impression there is too much in it.”

Chelsea’s Long-Term Plans Also Unlikely to Involve Toney

Chelsea have also been linked, but their recruitment plans appear focused on the long term. Jones noted: “Chelsea are linked too, and I do think that striker is a position the Blues are looking at for 2026, but I would be surprised if this is what they go for.”

While both clubs are evaluating options for 2025 and beyond, Toney’s long-term contract at Al-Ahli, which runs until 2028, makes any short-term move complicated.

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Future Remains Unclear for Prolific Forward

Toney’s future may depend on how the European market evolves in the summer. For now, TeamTalk’s assessment suggests both Tottenham and Chelsea are unlikely to make formal approaches in January, despite growing whispers of a Premier League return.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This story feels like a familiar pattern: a high-profile name linked in the media, only for logic and financial reality to intervene. While the idea of Thomas Frank reuniting with his former striker has undeniable appeal, it seems clear that this is not a move Spurs are actively pursuing.

Fans will likely see this as a sensible stance. Tottenham are finally moving towards a long-term squad model under Frank, prioritising younger, more adaptable forwards over older, established names with hefty contracts. Toney, now 29 and tied to Al-Ahli until 2028, does not fit that vision neatly.

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There’s also the financial element. Spurs have shown restraint in the market, particularly when it comes to players on lucrative Saudi deals. Many supporters would prefer to see funds allocated towards strengthening midfield depth or securing a versatile attacker capable of pressing high and linking play.

However, the intrigue remains. Frank’s history with Toney at Brentford delivered results and chemistry that Spurs fans remember well. But for now, most will agree with the report’s conclusion: Tottenham’s attention appears to be focused elsewhere.