Headline: Newcastle United Faces Challenges in Striker Search as Ivan Toney Emerges as Potential Target
Newcastle United’s efforts to enhance their attacking lineup have yet to yield the consistency that head coach Matthias Jaissle desires. Following the reported £130 million exit of Alexander Isak to Liverpool, the Magpies made significant investments in younger forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo, alongside Yoane Wissa and William Osula as additional options.
The results of these acquisitions have been mixed. Fernandez-Pardo has yet to contribute a goal or assist in five appearances, while Wissa and Osula each have one goal and one assist to their names this season. This performance left Jaissle in need of a dependable striker to fit his demanding 3-1-6 system, which requires the central forward to hold the ball, link up play, and finish scoring opportunities.
In response to these challenges, Newcastle has revamped its recruitment strategy, appointing Tomás Amaral as head of first-team recruitment. Sporting director Ross Wilson faces the task of meeting Jaissle’s immediate demands while managing a sustainable wage budget and building a squad intended for the long term, as opposed to making a single costly acquisition in January.
Jaissle’s past experience with a successful goalscorer at Al-Ahli has influenced the latest rumors linking Newcastle with a familiar name in the striking department.
Interest in Ivan Toney
Reports from Saudi outlet 365 Scores, relayed by Sport Witness indicate that Ivan Toney is “completely open” to the possibility of joining Newcastle if the sporting project and financial terms meet his expectations. Nevertheless, Wilson has refuted claims that Jaissle formally requested the striker, while an Al-Ahli source mentioned that the club has yet to receive any formal offer. The Saudi club reportedly intends to retain Toney until at least January, as he remains under contract until 2028.
The 30-year-old England international boasts an impressive record, scoring 86 goals in 107 appearances for Al-Ahli, including 72 goals under Jaissle’s management. This season, Toney has found the net 13 times and provided two assists in nine Saudi Pro League matches, in addition to one goal in three AFC Champions League Elite appearances.
Can Toney Solve Newcastle’s Attacking Dilemma?
JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA – OCTOBER 23: Ivan Toney of Al Ahli reacts during the Saudi Pro League match against Al Khaleej at Prince Abduallah Al Faisal Stadium on October 23, 2026.
Toney’s ability to challenge center-backs, secure aerial duels, and facilitate play would offer Jaissle a reliable option while younger forwards continue their development. Their previous collaboration could alleviate concerns about a challenging tactical transition, particularly as Toney is already well-acquainted with the manager’s system.
However, Al-Ahli sees little incentive to let go of a striker under contract until 2028, and Toney’s substantial salary could complicate matters for Newcastle‘s wage structure. Wilson is tasked with negotiating a reasonable fee or loan arrangement that does not compromise the club’s broader recruitment strategy. While Toney’s track record makes him an enticing choice, Newcastle must carefully evaluate whether the financial implications justify bringing the 30-year-old striker back to England.
