Journalist claims West Ham looking to move for England star in January | OneFootball

West Ham Exploring Ambitious Ivan Toney Move in 2026 Window

West Ham are preparing for a crucial January that could determine whether they stay in the Premier League or slip into deeper trouble. Sitting 19th in the table under new manager Nuno Espirito Santo, the club are already assessing options to revive their season. One name stands out above the rest, and it is a bold one. Ivan Toney.

Interest in the England striker has been confirmed by former scout Mick Brown, who told Football Insider that the Al-Ahli forward is firmly on West Ham’s radar. “Ivan Toney is definitely on West Ham’s radar. We know they’re going to need a striker because the ones they’ve got aren’t good enough. I think he would be a good fit in their team, because he’s strong and physical and always scored goals, and that would suit him as well if he could play like that.”

Striker Situation Demands Urgency

Niclas Fullkrug arrived with expectations, although his output has been inconsistent. Callum Wilson joined on a free from Newcastle United, providing depth rather than guaranteed goals. West Ham lack a focal point capable of bullying defenders and leading the line in high-pressure situations. Toney is exactly that profile.

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Brown also highlighted the lack of elite forwards currently available. “When you look at what strikers are available, there aren’t many available out there, and certainly not many with the record Toney has got. If he’s going to be available on loan, it’s certainly something they’ll be looking at because it seems they might not have too much money to spend on permanent moves.”

Financial Challenge Looming Over Any Deal

There is an obvious hurdle. Toney earns £525,000 per week in Saudi Arabia, a figure far beyond West Ham’s wage structure. Any deal would need Al-Ahli to subsidise a considerable portion of his salary. That said, the January market often moves on desperation and opportunity. If Toney is open to returning to the Premier League in search of a place at Euro 2026, compromises could be made.

West Ham will not find a more complete forward. Aerial threat. Penalty specialist. Vocal presence. Natural leader. Supporters at the London Stadium would rally behind him instantly.

Nuno Espirito Santo Needs a Turning Point

Graham Potter’s departure in late September left the club in a fragile state. Nuno has the task of stabilising a side that looks short of confidence. Reinforcements are essential, and few signings would lift morale like Ivan Toney walking through the doors of Rush Green.

The idea of Toney spearheading attacks with Jarrod Bowen has clear appeal. It transforms West Ham overnight from passive to aggressive. From reactive to proactive. From hopeful to dangerous.

Whether Al-Ahli accept loan proposals remains to be seen, and West Ham will not be alone in pursuing him. Yet timing is everything. This is not only a transfer. It is a statement of intent.

Supporters know what a talismanic centre forward can do in a relegation fight. West Ham need belief, goals and leadership in one move. Ivan Toney provides all three.