Everton target Ivan Toney sparks transfer speculation after slamming Saudi Pro League officiating

Ivan Toney hints at Al Ahli exit as Everton consider a 40 million pound move. Discover why the striker is frustrated with Saudi Pro League officials.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 11, 2026, 9:44 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Everton News

Frustration Boils Over in Saudi Title Race

The English forward, Ivan Toney, has triggered fresh speculation regarding a Premier League return after launching a scathing critique of officiating in the Saudi Pro League. Following a contentious 1, 1 draw between Al Ahli and Al Fayha, Toney expressed significant grievances over what he perceived as a failure to award clear penalties. The striker, who joined Al Ahli from Brentford in 2024 for a reported 40 million pounds, suggested that match officials are inadvertently or intentionally influencing the title race in favor of rivals.

Allegations of Bias Toward League Leaders

In a series of candid remarks, Toney questioned the integrity of the competition, specifically highlighting the perceived advantage given to Al Nassr, the club captained by Cristiano Ronaldo. According to Toney, referees appear to be turning a blind eye to crucial incidents as the season reaches its final stages. The striker noted that while similar fouls were penalized earlier in the campaign, the standards have seemingly shifted during the title run, in, leaving Al Ahli trailing Al Nassr by four points in the current standings.

Goodison Park Links Intensify Under Moyes

Everton have maintained a long, standing interest in Toney, with manager David Moyes reportedly holding exploratory talks as recently as November 2025. The Merseyside club is actively seeking to bolster its attacking options to provide competition or a direct upgrade for current forwards Thierno Barry and Beto. Toney’s prolific form in the Middle East, where he has netted 27 league goals this season to equal Al Ahli’s single, season scoring record, has kept him at the top of the scouting list for The Friedkin Group.