Thomas Tuchel's decision to include Ivan Toney in his England World Cup squad may have inadvertently given Manchester United the perfect opportunity to sign the striker this summer. Toney, who left Brentford for Al-Ahli two years ago, has been largely forgotten by Premier League fans, but a strong World Cup performance could change that narrative.
United already have Benjamin Sesko as their first-choice striker, but the Slovenian has only shown glimpses of his potential. The club needs a seasoned, clinical alternative who can provide competition without blocking Sesko's development. Toney, with his proven Premier League record and 72 goals in 93 matches in Saudi Arabia, fits that profile.
A direct move for a Saudi Pro League player might face fan backlash, but Tuchel's World Cup call-up offers a buffer. If Toney scores in North America, he will be seen as England's impact substitute rather than a Saudi exile, making the transfer more palatable to supporters. Tuchel is effectively taking the gamble on Toney's form so United do not have to.
Toney would be a low-risk, high-reward signing. He would not block Sesko's path to becoming the main striker, nor would his fee prevent INEOS from pursuing other top talents later. United have missed such opportunities before, and Tuchel may have just handed them the green light to make the right choice this summer.
