Brentford striker Igor Thiago, who is part of Brazil's FIFA World Cup 2026 squad, could well join either Arsenal or Manchester United this summer, a new report said. The 24-year-old is being considered as the partner for Benjamin Šeško and Viktor Gyökeres by United and Arsenal respectively.
Thiago was the second-highest goalscorer of the Premier League season with 22 goals—only behind Erling Haaland (27). Rasmus Højlund completed a permanent move to Napoli, while Joshua Zirkzee is almost certain to be sold. This means Thiago can cover for Šeško and work alongside Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha at United. Michael Carrick's team have returned to the European circuit, meaning there could be more games for United next season.
For the Gunners, Kai Havertz is not the sharpest of the lot and Gabriel Jesus is well past his prime. The defending champions, who are also the UEFA Champions League runners-up, definitely will need some more firepower to support Gyökeres and Leandro Trossard.
Needless to say, Brentford will not be interested in selling their in-form man. However, having missed out on European football by a whisker, the temptation to join one of the league's powerhouses could convince Thiago to consider a switch. With his current deal valid until 2031, the Bees could demand a sum around £77 million, reports claim. According to reports, however, United's interest in the player has not moved beyond the monitoring stage.
United in particular are adamant about rebuilding their core squad with young players, with a preference for Premier League experience. Thiago fits the bill perfectly and if the club is able to offload all the players they want to, the Brazilian could well be part of Carrick's plans for the upcoming campaign.
