Ivan Toney’s transfer stance revealed as Tottenham target faces tax dilemma

Meanwhile, Richarlison has struggled to maintain consistent form. The Brazilian has found the back of the net seven times this season, but his inconsistency makes it difficult to rely on him to lead the line throughout the campaign. Randal Kolo Muani has also endured a stop-start season for the North Londoners, and with the Frenchman only on a short-term loan at N17, it is vital for Spurs to sign a new striker in the upcoming window.

Tottenham eyeing a potential deal for Al Ahli star Ivan Toney

Tottenham are looking to bring in a new striker in January as they aim to build on last season’s Europa League success. Recent reports suggest the Lilywhites are keen to sign Al Ahli forward Ivan Toney on a short-term loan for the second half of the campaign. Thomas Frank is eager to reunite with the player and has kept the door open for his potential arrival as the 29-year-old looks to keep his World Cup hopes alive.

Ben Jacobs, however, believes Toney is not actively seeking a return to the Premier League anytime soon due to a significant stumbling block. Speaking on talkSPORT, Jacobs said:

“I’m getting the notion of a Saudi exit in January downplayed. We know that Tottenham, because of the Thomas Frank connection, and West Ham United are two clubs that certainly retain an interest in Ivan Toney if he becomes genuinely available. But Al Ahli don’t want to let him go, Toney continues to say he’s settled in Saudi Arabia.”

The journalist added:

“If he comes back to England specifically, he’s also going to have a massive tax bill as well. So, I think a January exit for Ivan Toney is unlikely, but let’s see what happens in the summer because by that stage, the tax implications are a little bit kinder. Because the way it works is, you’ve basically got to stay for two tax years, so once Ivan Toney gets into April and into the new tax year, then he’s in a much kinder position if he wants to consider a move back to the Premier League.”

Jacobs reveals that Ivan Toney is settled at Al Ahli and that neither party intends to part ways anytime soon. Another major issue for the England international is that he would face a substantial tax bill if he returned to the Premier League, making it difficult for the Lilywhites to secure his signature in January. The 29-year-old wants to continue playing in Saudi Arabia until next summer at least, when the tax implications become more favourable, potentially allowing him to make a Premier League return.

Tax dilemma for Ivan Toney?

Ivan Toney is currently earning an extraordinary £400,000 per week tax-free following his high-profile switch to Al Ahli in 2024. The England international has already accumulated £28m in earnings during his time in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League in January would not be financially viable, as he would face a massive tax bill upon re-entering the UK. (via talkSPORT)

To be considered a non-UK tax resident, the 29-year-old must remain at Al Ahli until next summer, when the new financial year begins. If he were to return to the Premier League in January, he would lose 50% of his earnings, meaning he would sacrifice almost £14m in wages to tax obligations. Therefore, it only makes sense for the prolific striker to stay in Saudi Arabia and target a summer return to one of Europe’s top leagues.