Brentford striker Ivan Toney has completed his move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli, with the transfer officially confirmed in the early hours of Saturday morning.
The 28-year-old forward’s departure follows Brentford’s acceptance of a bid in the region of £40 million, marking the end of Toney’s four-year tenure with the Bees.
Brentford manager Thomas Frank expressed his admiration for Toney’s contributions, highlighting his remarkable goal-scoring record.
“It’s been a pleasure to work with Ivan over the last four years,” Frank stated.
“He has averaged more than one goal every two games, which is an unbelievable number. On the pitch, he has been a fantastic goalscorer, link-up player, and leader. He has pushed the team, the squad, and himself.”
Frank also paid tribute to Toney’s legacy at Brentford, adding, “Ivan leaves as a Brentford legend.”
Toney’s international experience includes being part of Gareth Southgate’s England squad at Euro 2024, where he made three appearances as a substitute. Notably, he scored a penalty in the shootout victory over Switzerland, displaying his composure by staring down the goalkeeper before calmly finding the net.
During the 2022-23 Premier League season, Toney netted 20 goals, further establishing himself as one of the league’s top strikers. After returning from an eight-month suspension for breaching FA betting rules, he continued his goal-scoring form, scoring four times in his first five matches last season.
However, Toney was not included in interim England manager Lee Carsley’s squad for the September Nations League games, despite having earned six caps and one goal for the national team.