Sources: Man United devise solution to bypass 'difficult' Ivan Toney issue

Manchester United are exploring a loan deal for Al Ahli striker Ivan Toney to cover for injured Benjamin Sesko, avoiding the cost of his lucrative Saudi contract.

Manchester United are assessing striker options to cover for the injured Benjamin Sesko and have identified Al Ahli's Ivan Toney as a potential candidate. The 30-year-old is on a highly lucrative contract in Saudi Arabia, and Al Ahli face no financial pressure to sell, making a permanent deal unlikely. Sources say United are instead preparing to pursue an initial loan move in January to sidestep taking on his full wages. Toney has been prolific in the Middle East this season and is seen as an attractive option given his Premier League pedigree and proven finishing ability. However, Toney showed little desire to return to English football when linked with Tottenham last season, and would likely require significant incentives to agree to a temporary move back to England.