🔵⚒️ WEST HAM UNITED COMPLETE SHOCK €15M DEAL FOR IVAN TONEY — OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT EXPECTED IN JANUARY
West Ham United have completed one of the most surprising transfer moves ahead of the January window, securing the signing of Al Ahli striker Ivan Toney for a reported €15 million. The Hammers are understood to have moved swiftly and decisively to beat Newcastle United and RB Leipzig to the 29-year-old’s signature, concluding negotiations before the market formally opens. The club is now preparing to officially unveil the forward in early January, once the registration period begins.
The deal marks a dramatic return to the Premier League for Toney, who left Brentford for Al Ahli last year. Despite a promising start in Saudi Arabia, the England international has been keen on a move back to England, and West Ham have offered him the perfect opportunity. The player has already agreed personal terms and signed a four-year contract, committing his future to the east London side until 2029.
West Ham’s technical director, Tim Steidten, is believed to be the key architect of the transfer, maintaining discreet contact with Toney’s representatives over recent months. Once the opportunity arose to bring the striker back to England for a cut-price fee, Steidten and the club hierarchy acted quickly. Newcastle United were long-term admirers of Toney, while RB Leipzig had submitted an initial enquiry, but neither club advanced as rapidly or as firmly as West Ham in recent weeks.
Manager Julen Lopetegui has now secured the proven goalscorer he had been pushing for. The Hammers have lacked a reliable, natural No. 9 this season, often relying on rotating options or makeshift strikers. Toney, known for his aerial presence, penalty-box instincts, and physicality, is expected to provide an immediate upgrade in attacking efficiency. His leadership qualities and competitive mentality are also seen as crucial additions for a squad targeting a European finish.
Toney’s arrival reflects West Ham’s renewed ambition under Lopetegui’s tenure and the board’s willingness to support the manager’s long-term vision. At 29, Toney brings the perfect blend of experience and hunger, with many inside the club believing he can lead the line for years to come. The relatively low transfer fee is also being described as one of the most astute pieces of business in the mid-season market.
Sources close to the club say Toney is “excited, motivated, and ready to make an immediate impact,” having already undergone preliminary media duties and completed internal onboarding ahead of his public presentation. That unveiling is set to take place in the first week of January at the London Stadium, where supporters will get their first glimpse of their new signing in claret and blue. The event is expected to draw significant media attention, with West Ham planning a full press conference and fan-interaction segment.
With the January window still days away from officially opening, West Ham have sent a bold message to their rivals. By landing Ivan Toney early — and for just €15 million — the Hammers have not only strengthened their squad but signaled their intent for the second half of the season. As anticipation builds, all eyes will turn to January when the club finally presents their new No. 9 to the world.
