Manchester United are reportedly battling with Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur to sign Brentford striker Igor Thiago this summer transfer window.
Interest from the three Premier League clubs has been registered through intermediaries, according to reports from TEAMtalk, with all three sides looking to strengthen their attacking options.
Thiago enjoyed a remarkable campaign last season, scoring 25 goals and registering one assist across 40 appearances in all competitions for Brentford.
The 25-year-old’s outstanding club form earned him a place in Brazil’s World Cup squad, further raising his profile among Europe’s top clubs.
Bayern Munich have also been monitoring Thiago’s progress closely, making the competition for his signature even more intense this summer.
However, Brentford have made their position clear by tying the striker down to a new contract running until 2031, signalling their determination to keep him.
Thiago himself is not pushing for an exit, believing the Gtech Community Stadium provides the ideal environment to continue his development as a player.
Keith Andrews’ side are therefore confident of retaining their prized striker despite the significant interest from some of England’s biggest clubs.
The Brazilian is a 6ft 3in striker who is quick, strong, good in the air, can finish off his chances, is efficient at taking penalties, and works hard without possession.
Chelsea recently added Danny Welbeck to their attacking options, giving them Nicolas Jackson, Joao Pedro, and Liam Delap as striker choices, potentially reducing their urgency in this particular pursuit.
Tottenham, on the other hand, face a more pressing need, with Richarlison’s contract set to expire at the end of next season and his future at the club uncertain.
Manchester United currently have Benjamin Sesko and Joshua Zirkzee as their main centre-forward options, though Zirkzee has been linked with a departure from Old Trafford.
Should Zirkzee leave, United’s need for a proven Premier League striker would become significantly more urgent heading into the new season.
Thiago is a Premier League-proven player who has demonstrated he can perform at the highest level consistently, making him an attractive option for any of the three clubs pursuing him.