His resolve to stay put at Al Ahli after moving there from Brentford in 2024 is somewhat a step back for Tottenham in their pursuit of Ivan Toney. Spurs actively seek a proven goalscorer, particularly in consideration of the substandard form the current attackers bar Mohammed Kudus have been in.

According to Caught Offside, despite Toney wanting to stay back in Saudi, Spurs won’t remain shaken by this fact, as he is not a priority signing for the Lilywhites. Toney, who has flourished in the Middle East with nine goals and two assists in just 12 appearances this season, has explicitly chosen to honour his contract until 2028 (Transfermarkt).

One can understand why Spurs would show interest in Toney, even keeping aside the wider striker situation at the club. The appeal of Toney lies in his proven Premier League pedigree and familiarity with manager Thomas Frank, under whom he excelled at Brentford. For Toney, who’d wish to honour his contract, fair play. But chances of featuring in the England squad from a Saudi club remain slim.

Former Premier League striker not a priority for Spurs despite glaring interest.

Previous reports suggested Toney harbours a desire for a reunion with Frank at Spurs, and...