Exclusive: West Ham turn attention to Ivan Toney deal after loan development

West Ham have endured a frustrating start to the season so far and are looking ahead to the January transfer window in an attempt to reverse their fortunes.

The Hammers’ 2-0 defeat to Arsenal last time out meant they have now won just one of their opening seven league games amid concerns about their attacking firepower.

Neither Callum Wilson nor Niclas Fullkrug have been able to establish themselves as a regular goalscorer for West Ham, forcing them to consider options in the market.

Football Insider revealed on 12 October that West Ham are interested in Man United’s Joshua Zirkzee as an option to strengthen up front in the mid-season window.

However, Ivan Toney has now emerged as a key contender for the position, having been linked with a return to England following his spell in Saudi Arabia.

Nuno Espirito Santo on the touchline at West Ham
Credit: Imago

Ivan Toney tipped to leave Al-Ahli in January loan move

Reports have claimed Toney could leave Al-Ahli on loan in January in favour of returning to the Premier League to boost his chances of returning to the England squad.

West Ham are the latest side to show an interest in the striker amid ongoing concerns about the current attacking options at the London Stadium.

That is according to former West Ham senior scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected at his former club, as he exclusively told Football Insider that Toney’s potential availability has put the Hammers on alert ahead of the January window.

Ivan Toney is definitely on West Ham’s radar,” he told Football Insider.

“We know they’re going to need a striker because the ones they’ve got aren’t good enough.

“I think he would be a good fit in their team, because he’s strong and physical and always scored goals, and that would suit him as well if he could play like that.

“When you look at what strikers are available, there aren’t many available out there, and certainly not many with the record Toney has got.

Credit: Getty Images

“If he’s going to be available on loan, it’s certainly something they’ll be looking at because it seems they might not have too much money to spend on permanent moves.

“So to get a striker like Toney in on loan, with the qualities he brings, they’d have to consider it.”

Aston Villa are also interested in Toney and could make a move to rival West Ham in January if his availability is made clear in the coming months.

Thomas Tuchel to play key role in Toney exit decision

Thomas Tuchel had previously indicated Toney could be part of his squad even when playing in the Saudi Pro League, but that stance has been questioned, leaving Toney frustrated.

The striker last appeared for England in a late cameo during their 3-1 defeat to Senegal, the only loss Tuchel has suffered since becoming England manager.

As a result, he now believes he may have to return to the Premier League to feature more prominently in the England plans ahead of the World Cup.

Thomas Tuchel with his hands in his pockets at England training
Thomas Tuchel holds the key to Ivan Toney’s future. (Credit Imago)

Harry Kane is England’s undisputed first-choice striker under Tuchel, while Ollie Watkins has proved to be a reliable backup in recent World Cup qualifiers.

Toney may find it difficult to force his way back in as a result, with the belief that the likes of Jarrod Bowen, Anthony Gordon or Marcus Rashford could fill in if required.

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