- Toney left Brentford for a big-money move to to Saudi Pro League in 2024.
- Open to Premier League return despite scoring 66 goals in 84 games for Al-Ahli.
- Everton reportedly remain interested in signing the striker this summer.
Everton have long admired Ivan Toney. The Toffees held talks to sign the striker back in November, as David Moyes looked to upgrade on Thierno Barry and Beto. A deal never materialised, and the England international remained at Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia, where he has impressively scored 66 goals in 84 games.
But Toney’s patience with the Saudi Pro League appears to be wearing thin. The 30-year-old has released a furious statement accusing officials of favouring Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr in the title race. That anger could be the lifeline Everton need to reignite their interest this summer.
Ivan Toney: ‘It’s clear what’s being influenced here’
Al Ahli are just four points behind Al Nassr with seven games remaining. After a 1-1 draw with Al‑Fayha, Ivan Toney launched an explosive rant about the refereeing decisions that he believes are helping his rivals.
“The big talking point was the two penalties. It’s clear as day. I don’t know what more you want him to do? Pick the ball up with two hands, are you going to give a penalty then or not,” Toney said.
He then revealed a remarkable exchange with the referee. “And then we try to talk to the referee and he tries to tell us to focus on the AFC (Asian Champions League). How can the referee say this? We’re talking about now and he says focus on the AFC. If you want me to go deeper, I can go deeper. It might get me into trouble but I’m a man that says it how it is.”
When asked who was benefiting, Toney was blunt. “We know who (is benefitting). Who are we chasing?” He added on Instagram: “It’s actually crazy how you can miss things like this in crucial moments or choose to turn a blind eye. And without saying too much that may get me in trouble, it’s clear what’s being influenced here!”
Why Everton should be on red alert after Toney statement
Ivan Toney is open to returning to the Premier League. He approaches the final two years of his contract at Al Ahli this summer, and his public fury suggests he may be ready to leave Saudi Arabia. A return to England would also boost his chances of making the World Cup squad this summer.
David Moyes believes Toney would be a quality addition. The striker has 27 goals in 27 league appearances this season. He is more than just a goalscorer. His creativity and hold‑up play would fit Everton’s system perfectly.
Financial hurdles remain. Toney left Brentford for £40m in 2024, and his wages in Saudi are substantial. But if his frustration has genuinely soured his experience, he may be willing to compromise to return to English football. Everton must be ready.
European qualification would make the Toffees a far more attractive destination. And with Beto and Barry yet to fully convince, Toney could be the proven number nine Moyes has been searching for. The Saudi explosion has put Everton on red alert. Now they need to act.
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