Thomas Frank might be looking to reunite with Ivan Toney at Tottenham Hotspur, but a significant issue could prevent that.
Frank is well aware of Toney’s qualities as a player after they worked together at Brentford, with the England international thriving under his leadership.
Now he’s in charge of Tottenham, there has been speculation that he could try to bring Toney back to the Premier League, ending his spell in Saudi Arabia.
At 29 years of age, Toney certainly has plenty of great years ahead of him if Tottenham could bring him in, but there’s a reason why the transfer is unlikely.
Ivan Toney’s wages would be a stumbling block for Tottenham Hotspur
Toney would immediately improve the current Tottenham squad due to his qualities as a striker and a proven goalscorer.
However, as Alex Crook explained on the Premier League’s All Access podcast, that doesn’t mean it will be a routine deal for the Premier League side to pull off.
“I think that would be difficult because he’s earning so much money in the Saudi Pro League.
“But that for me would be a game changer and would turn Tottenham from a team, who I don’t think are top four contenders at this moment in time, to a team that could well challenge for the Champions League.”
Toney scored 36 goals in 85 Premier League games during his time in England’s top flight, proving his ability to perform at that level.
Since moving to Saudi Arabia, he has maintained the same standard for scoring goals, and adding him to Tottenham’s current squad would be of obvious benefit.
Tottenham Hotspur might bring back Harry Kane instead
If Tottenham hope to increase their firepower, they could end up looking to the past to inspire the future in Harry Kane.
The England captain is currently thriving in Germany for Bayern Munich, and next summer they have the opportunity to bring him back to the club for just £57million.
A clause in his contract means that Tottenham would have first refusal on Kane if he wants to leave the Bundesliga giants, potentially opening up the chance for a romantic end to his career.
Unfortunately, like Toney, this potential deal could end up being a problem because of Kane’s wages.
TBR Football revealed that Tottenham can afford to sign Kane, but his £400,000-per-week wages are significantly higher than the current top earners, who are on £195,000.