In a sensational development that has sent ripples across English football, West Ham United are closing in on the signing of England international Ivan Toney, having agreed on personal terms over a four-year contract with the prolific striker. According to multiple sources close to the deal, the Hammers are finalizing the finer details of a $12 million transfer fee with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli SFC, paving the way for one of the most high-profile Premier League returns of 2025.
Toney, who departed Brentford last year to join Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, has been nothing short of outstanding overseas, netting 38 goals in 54 appearances across all competitions. His clinical finishing, aerial presence, and leadership on and off the pitch quickly made him a fan favorite in Jeddah. However, the 29-year-old forward has long expressed his desire to return to the Premier League, with eyes firmly fixed on earning a place in England’s World Cup squad for 2026.
Sources close to the player reveal that Toney has been in “constant dialogue” with England manager Gareth Southgate, who reportedly told the striker that regular top-flight football in England could reignite his international prospects. With that motivation, Toney has prioritized a move back to the Premier League — and West Ham’s offer provided the perfect opportunity.
Under manager Julen Lopetegui, West Ham have been rebuilding their attacking core following inconsistent performances this season. The club’s top scorer, Jarrod Bowen, has often carried the burden of goal-scoring duties, while new signings have struggled to make a consistent impact. Bringing in a proven finisher like Toney represents a statement of intent from the London club as they push for a European qualification spot in the second half of the season.
Club insiders say negotiations between West Ham and Al-Ahli progressed quickly once Toney’s camp made his wish clear. The agreed deal reportedly includes performance-related bonuses and a sell-on clause, though the Hammers are confident that the total package represents “exceptional value” for a player of Toney’s pedigree and experience.
Fans have already taken to social media to express their excitement, with many hailing the move as the “missing piece” in West Ham’s attacking setup. One supporter wrote, “Toney at West Ham is exactly what we need — a proven striker who can lead the line and give us that edge in big games.”
Toney is expected to undergo medicals in early January, with an official announcement anticipated soon after the transfer window opens. If finalized, the move would mark a major coup for West Ham and a massive personal milestone for Toney, who looks set to reignite his Premier League career with renewed hunger and ambition.
With the deal nearing completion, all eyes now turn to East London — where Ivan Toney could soon don the claret and blue once again, leading West Ham’s charge back to European contention and possibly, back into the England fold.
