Ivan Toney is reportedly interested in joining Tottenham Hotspur, with former Spurs midfielder David Bentley suggesting that the England international could reunite with his former manager Thomas Frank in north London.
Toney, now 29, has rediscovered his scoring touch since moving to Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia last year, netting 11 goals in 15 games across all competitions this season. Despite his strong start in the Middle East, fresh speculation suggests he may be ready to return to the Premier League.
Bentley: “Tottenham is the perfect destination for Toney”
Speaking to Sky Sports, Bentley claimed that Toney would be open to a switch to Tottenham, where he could link up again with Frank — the coach who helped transform his career at Brentford.
“He’ll want to go in at Tottenham,” Bentley said. “For him, to play at the stadium with Thomas Frank, that’s the perfect destination.
“If he wants to get into the England team, it’s not about money — it’s about playing to get into that World Cup squad. The perfect environment is Tottenham. Tottenham could do with him and England as well — if anything happens with [Harry] Kane, we’re struggling a bit for centre forwards.” — David Bentley, Sky Sports
Toney has remained on England’s radar since his Brentford days but has yet to secure a regular spot in Gareth Southgate’s squad. Bentley believes a Premier League return could reignite his international ambitions, especially ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Spurs’ striker shortage adds urgency
Tottenham’s attacking options have been hit hard by injuries this season. Dominic Solanke remains sidelined with an ongoing ankle issue, while Randal Kolo Muani has endured a stop-start campaign due to fitness problems.
Meanwhile, Richarlison’s inconsistent form has raised further doubts about his long-term future at the club. With only Mathys Tel and Heung-min Son available as makeshift forwards, Spurs could turn to the January transfer window for reinforcements.
Bentley suggested that Toney would be an ideal short-term solution:
“He’s a great player. Scoring goals in the Premier League is not easy, and the way he plays — his hold-up play, strength, and finishing — Tottenham could really use that.
“Under Thomas Frank, he had a great time with him at Brentford and I’m sure they’re talking. I’m sure that’ll be the No.1 destination for him to go in at. Tottenham are struggling with centre-forwards at the minute — Solanke is out injured and Richarlison is not at the level he needs to be.” — David Bentley
Bentley even hinted that a loan move in January could be possible if Toney pushes for a Premier League return.
Toney and Frank’s successful past together
Toney and Frank developed a strong relationship during their time at Brentford, where the striker played a crucial role in the club’s rise to the top flight. Under Frank, Toney scored 68 goals in 124 appearances and was widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s most complete forwards before his £40 million move to Al-Ahli on Deadline Day last year.
Their chemistry could make a reunion in north London a natural fit — particularly as Frank continues to shape Tottenham’s rebuild following his summer appointment.
Our view: A move that makes sense for both parties
FootballPlace believes the move could benefit all sides. “For Tottenham, it’s an obvious fit — a proven Premier League striker who knows the manager’s system,” he said. “For Toney, it’s a route back to England, to the national team, and to a club fighting for European qualification.”
William added: “The challenge will be financial. Spurs would likely prefer a loan with an option to buy, while Al-Ahli won’t want to lose a player who’s become central to their project.”
Key Insights
- Ivan Toney is “keen” on joining Tottenham and reuniting with Thomas Frank.
- The England striker has 11 goals in 15 games for Al-Ahli this season.
- Tottenham are struggling with injuries to Dominic Solanke and Randal Kolo Muani.
- David Bentley says a move would boost Toney’s World Cup hopes.
- A January loan deal could be explored if Al-Ahli are open to negotiations.
What’s Next for Tottenham and Ivan Toney?
Tottenham face Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain immediately after the international break, and their lack of depth up front could become a pressing issue. If Solanke and Kolo Muani fail to recover in time, the club may be forced into the January market.
For Toney, a return to England could be too tempting to resist — especially if Frank makes direct contact. With Spurs keen to add experience and goals, the move could quickly develop into one of the window’s biggest storylines.
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