From Brentford Hero to Saudi Pro League Star
The football world was abuzz this week as Brentford’s talismanic striker Ivan Toney completed his £40 million transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli. This blockbuster move marks the end of an era for the Bees and opens an exciting new chapter for the 28-year-old England international, whose journey from League One to Premier League stardom has been nothing short of remarkable.
Toney leaves Brentford as a bona fide club legend, having netted 72 goals in 141 appearances. His 36 Premier League goals across three seasons were instrumental in establishing Brentford as a top-flight force, with his 2022/23 campaign (20 goals) placing him behind only Erling Haaland and Harry Kane in the Golden Boot race.
The Rise of a Premier League Force
Toney‘s Brentford story began in 2020 when he joined from Peterborough for just £5 million. His immediate impact was seismic – 31 Championship goals fired the Bees to promotion, including the opener in their 2-0 playoff final win against Swansea. As Banglawin88 analysts noted, his unique blend of physicality, penalty-box instincts, and surprising technical ability made him the complete modern striker.
Despite an eight-month gambling ban that sidelined him until January 2024, Toney returned with characteristic determination. His four goals in 17 appearances last season, coupled with crucial contributions in England’s Euro 2024 campaign (including an assist for Kane’s winner against Slovakia and a penalty shootout conversion versus Switzerland), proved his elite mentality.
Why Al Ahli’s Gamble Could Pay Off
At £40 million, Al Ahli have secured a proven goalscorer entering his prime. Tactical analysts at Banglawin88 highlight how Toney’s skill set perfectly suits the Saudi league’s evolving demands:
- Aerial dominance: Wins 4.3 aerial duels per 90 (top 5% of Premier League forwards)
- Hold-up play: 7.3 successful link-ups per game
- Deadly precision: 85% penalty conversion rate (17/20 in PL)
Brentford manager Thomas Frank’s emotional farewell underscored Toney‘s legacy: “He averaged more than a goal every two games – an unbelievable number. Ivan leaves as a Brentford legend.”
What This Means for Brentford and the Premier League
The Bees now face the daunting task of replacing their offensive focal point. Potential candidates include:
- Jonathan David (Lille) – Similar pressing and finishing profile
- Serhou Guirassy (Stuttgart) – Physical presence with Bundesliga-proven quality
- Gift Orban (Gent) – Young, explosive alternative
For Toney, this move represents both a financial windfall and an opportunity to become the face of Saudi football’s next phase. As Banglawin88 Middle East football expert noted: “Al Ahli are building something special, and Toney’s Premier League pedigree makes him the ideal standard-bearer.”
Will Ivan Toney light up the Saudi Pro League like he did the Premier League? Share your predictions below and stay tuned to Banglawin88 for more in-depth transfer analysis!
