Toney, who left Brentford in 2024 for a lucrative move to Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia, has been the subject of behind-the-scenes checks as English sides assess whether he is open to coming back.
Tottenham have shown the strongest intent, and sources indicate new head coach Thomas Frank has held exploratory conversations regarding a possible reunion with the striker he previously managed at Brentford.
Other clubs, including Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United, have all monitored him at various points, and sources suggest that there are clubs other than Spurs that have sought to understand his current mindset.
In the past, there have been some question marks around Toney’s personality and whether he would fit certain dressing-room environments. It has been suggested that this was one of the red flags identified by Arsenal ahead of a potential move in the past.
Toney earns approximately £400,000 per week in Saudi Arabia, a salary level that is tax-free in his current location.
Any return to England would require a significant adjustment, with Premier League suitors aware he would struggle to secure even half of those earnings.
That financial gap has always been viewed as a barrier, but sources with knowledge of the situation suggest Toney has also been motivated by sporting considerations.
One factor said to be on his mind has been the possibility of forcing his way into England’s 2026 World Cup squad.
Thomas Tuchel’s side have qualified and while Harry Kane remains the undisputed first choice, the competition behind him has yet to fully settle.
A January move back to the Premier League could have potentially helped revive the chances of Toney being in the frame.
Yet those exploring the situation now believe his pathway into the England squad is now very slim, given the timeline, and that realisation may impact his rush back into English football.
While Premier League clubs will continue to monitor the situation – and will not dismiss the opportunity if Toney becomes available – the current expectation is that he is likely to remain in Saudi Arabia for now.
