Brentford ‘doing everything’ to keep Igor Thiago from Tottenham
Brentford will strive to hold on to Igor Thiago in January amid a growing queue of bidding elite Premier League clubs.
Sitting second behind Erling Haaland for most goals scored in the English top-flight this season, it is no surprise the Brazilian is set to be the most lucrative forward to buy in January.
Sources told Football Insider that Newcastle, Tottenham and Aston Villa are all in the running to sign Thiago.
Potentially having the advantage, ex-Everton, and Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness exclusively told Football Insider that Aston Villa could propose a swap deal for Thiago, due to their ongoing PSR issues.
Newcastle not prioritising striker signing as Tottenham and Aston Villa continue to monitor Thiago
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, it is possible the Magpies may drop away in the race to sign the Brazilian.
With Yoane Wissa nearing a return to action for Newcastle, Eddie Howe will have two stunning options up top and may cool his interest in Thiago.
The Bees will still need to brace for strong pursuits from Tottenham and Villa, given the pair have lacked a ruthless goal machine so far this season.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast over what is set to be an intriguing transfer saga for the 24-year-old, I explained: “I think it’s not a priority for Newcastle bringing in a striker right now.
“But, I think any club will have to be sitting up and taking notice of Thiago’s superb form for Brentford this season.
“So, that’s why he’s been linked with some of these clubs but he’s under contract until 2029. Brentford are under no pressure to sell him.
“Obviously, they made a lot of money in the summer selling [Bryan] Mbuemo, [Yoane] Wissa, [Christian] Norgaard all left, so I’m sure Keith Andrews will be doing everything he can to keep hold of him.”
Brentford hoping Tottenham keep hold of Richarlison in January to reduce chance of Thiago transfer
In regards to a deal for the ex-Club Brugge frontman, bidding clubs may need to offload unwanted strikers to be able to raise the required funds.
Sources told Football Insider that Saudi Arabian and Brazilian clubs are in the running to sign Richarlison, who could be the cash cow needed for Thomas Frank to sign the Bees’ number nine.
The Brazilian’s exit would likely bring about a stack of cash that could be used to splash out on Thiago and finally resolve Spurs’ goalscoring woes.
Yet, given the striker’s hot and cold form for the Lilywhites, it appears unlikely he’ll be shipped on in the upcoming transfer window, due to his mixed performances in north London possibly dissuading suitors.