EXCLUSIVE: Tottenham eye Ivan Toney as Harry Kane replacement

Steve Kay

Updated: 17 Jul 2023 11:58 BST
3 min read

Tottenham Hotspur have turned their attention to Brentford striker Ivan Toney in the event that Harry Kane departs this summer.

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Spurs are willing to wait until next year’s winter transfer window to make a move for the England international.

Sources have revealed that Toney was previously recommended to chairman Daniel Levy by former Spurs manager David Pleat, who envisioned him as the perfect candidate to provide much-needed rest for Kane in specific matches and eventually take over the reins from the England captain.

But at the time, Toney was unavailable and Tottenham went on to secure the services of Carlos Vinicius instead, who arrived on loan from Benfica.

Toney is currently serving a football ban that ends on January 16, due to an eight-month suspension for breaching gambling rules, while the former Newcastle forward also has restrictions on training until September.

Kane has been linked with a move away from Tottenham, with Bayern Munich making two failed bids so far, and Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag thought to be a huge admirer.

And his potential departure has sparked a belief among many insiders at Tottenham that Toney would be an ideal replacement, particularly as he’s three years younger than his compatriot.

Spurs eye winter window

© ProShots - Ivan Toney is currently banned from playing

Toney, who has netted 32 goals in just 68 appearances in the Premier League, is being considered as an option for the 2024 January window, we are told. Sources close to Tottenham say Levy would prefer to retain Kane until then, before bringing in Toney.

There is still a chance Tottenham may opt to bring in Toney this summer - but that would depend on any possible Kane departure.

Indeed, the striker has garnered substantial admiration at Tottenham, with many regarding him as the player closest in style and ability to their all-time top goal-scorer.