Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor is urging Tottenham to secure the signing of Brentford star Ivan Toney, especially after Bee manager Thomas Frank indicated the possibility of a January transfer. Toney has been linked with several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Chelsea, but Agbonlahor believes he’s a more pressing need for Tottenham.
Agbonlahor does not see Richarlison or the summer signing Brennan Johnson as natural No. 9s, and he is concerned that if Tottenham doesn’t acquire a suitable replacement for Harry Kane, it could jeopardize their chances of securing a top-four finish.
Toney had an impressive season with Brentford, scoring 21 goals in 35 games, and has a solid record of 32 goals in 68 Premier League appearances, averaging nearly a goal every two games. Thomas Frank is expecting numerous offers for Toney when he becomes eligible to return to action on January 17 after serving a suspension for breaching gambling rules.
Agbonlahor emphasized the importance of Tottenham making this signing, saying, “If I were Spurs, I would want this deal completed as soon as possible. They should finalize everything today, and then he can join the team on January 1st, playing towards the end of the month. Spurs desperately need a genuine striker. Johnson and Richarlison aren’t the solution; they are players who can fill in on the left and right. Toney is an exceptional player, and just imagine the service he would receive, especially from Maddison. They must ensure this deal happens because when you look at the options available, there aren’t many. This could ultimately be what costs them a top-four finish.”
Despite not having the “top striker” Agbonlahor mentions, Tottenham has had a strong start to the new league season, winning four out of their first five games and scoring 13 goals, with only Manchester City and Brighton scoring more. They are set to face Arsenal in the first north London derby of the new season on Sunday.