SPURS TRANSFER TWIST: A fresh verdict on Ivan Toney has clarified Thomas Frank’s January priority, as fans debate whether the striker is the key signing or a risky gamble.

Thomas Frank has been advised that Tottenham must recruit “three or four proven players” if they are to rescue their season.

After consecutive losses to Nottingham Forest and Liverpool, Spurs sit 13th in the Premier League. Inconsistency has plagued Frank’s side, who have managed just six wins from 17 league matches. Injuries have also taken a heavy toll, with Dominic Solanke, James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski and Radu Dragusin all sidelined for long spells during the 2025/26 campaign. As a result, the squad has been stretched, and Frank has already confirmed that the club will “definitely” be active when the January transfer window opens.

Ivan Toney has emerged as a potential target, with Frank having previously worked with the striker at Brentford. Now playing for Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, Toney has scored 12 goals in 18 appearances this season. The 29-year-old is keen to force his way into England’s World Cup plans and could consider a return to the Premier League this winter to impress Thomas Tuchel.

However, former Spurs winger Chris Waddle has questioned whether Toney would be the right fit for Frank’s tactical setup in north London. Speaking to BestBettingSites, Waddle said he admired Toney’s time at Brentford but wondered if time away from the Premier League might affect his sharpness. He also noted that Tottenham’s attacking demands and fan expectations differ greatly from Frank’s more pragmatic Brentford approach.

Waddle acknowledged Toney’s qualities as a strong focal point who links play well and scores goals, but raised doubts over his age and resale value, factors that often influence Tottenham’s transfer strategy. He suggested Spurs typically prioritize players they can profit from in the future, pointing to past decisions as evidence of that approach.

Al Ahli reportedly paid around £40 million for Toney 18 months ago, though it remains unclear what fee they would now demand. Regardless, Waddle believes Spurs urgently need experience and reliability in January.

“With Ivan Toney, it depends on the price,” Waddle said. “Tottenham desperately need a centre-forward. But more than that, they need proven quality. Whether it’s from Italy, France, Germany or Spain, they need to identify the right players and bring them in now. If they do have the funds, signing three or four established footballers could completely transform Tottenham’s season and future.”