Igor Thiago has been the talk of the town this season, and Brentford isn’t the only team taking notice. According to ESPN Brazil journalist Felipe Silva, the 24-year-old Brazilian has scored 25 goals in 36 games this season, 22 of which have come in the Premier League alone (giving Haaland a run for his money with 24 goals for the Norwegian).
Chelsea is one of four teams that have formally enquired about his availability. The other three are Atletico Madrid, Juventus, and AC Milan, although Silva thinks Italian interest is unlikely to result in a firm offer because neither team is anticipated to match Brentford’s asking price.
Silva claims that the asking price is around £80 million. Brentford has every right to maintain their position in light of Thiago’s actions this season. Back in January, he set the record for the most goals scored by a Brazilian in a single Premier League season, and since then, he has only increased his total.
Chelsea launch move for £80 million-rated Premier League forward
The background of Chelsea’s interest is important. After the German team decided not to activate their purchase option, Nicolas Jackson will return from his loan at Bayern Munich this summer, but his future at Stamford Bridge appears grim. Chelsea may have five strikers on the roster come pre-season, since Emmanuel Emegha has already been signed from Strasbourg and will join in the summer.
The idea of moving the striker across London would surely appeal to Chelsea, who have spent around £1.5 billion since Clearlake Capital took ownership. Joao Pedro, Thiago’s Brazilian teammate, has already scored 14 goals in his debut season at Stamford Bridge. However, they may be seeking further support for the next manager they hire.
According to reports, at least two of the five will probably be sold; Marc Guiu, Liam Delap, and Jackson are all potential departing players. However, a decision is unlikely to be made prior to the appointment of a new head coach.
