Interest in Ivan Toney has been building ahead of the January transfer window, but early indications suggest a return to the Premier League may be further off than many anticipated.

Toney, who left Brentford in 2024 to join Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia on a lucrative deal, has recently been the subject of discreet enquiries from English clubs evaluating whether he is open to coming back.

Tottenham are understood to have shown the most concrete intent so far. Sources indicate that new head coach Thomas Frank has already held preliminary discussions about the possibility of reuniting with the striker he previously worked with at Brentford.

Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United have all tracked Toney at various points as well, and sources suggest multiple clubs beyond Spurs have sought to gauge his current stance.

Concerns over Toney’s personality and dressing-room fit have been raised in the past, with Arsenal reportedly flagging this as a key hesitation during earlier assessments.

The financial landscape presents another major hurdle. Toney earns around £400,000 per week in Saudi Arabia — tax-free — and any switch back to England would require a dramatic pay cut. Premier League clubs recognise that even half of his current salary would be difficult to match.

While money has long been considered a sticking point, those familiar with Toney’s situation say sporting ambitions have also played a role in his thinking. One motivating factor is believed to be his desire to break back into England’s squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Although Thomas Tuchel’s side have already qualified and Harry Kane remains the unquestioned starter, the competition behind him is far from settled. A January move could have helped Toney reignite his prospects.

However, those assessing the situation now believe his chances of forcing his way into the England setup are increasingly slim given the timeframe. This reality may reduce the urgency for him to return to English football.

Premier League clubs will continue to keep tabs on his situation and would not rule out a move if the opportunity arises, but the current expectation is that Toney is likely to remain in Saudi Arabia — at least for the time being.