Tottenham are seeking attacking reinforcements to solve their goalscoring conundrum.
Tottenham Hotspur remain stuck in the relegation zone and are winless in the Premier League since the turn of the year. Roberto De Zerbi must ensure the club stays in the top flight in the next five games.
Regardless of what happens at the end of the season, the squad is expected to undergo changes. With Richarlison’s future at the club uncertain, and Randal Kolo Muani expected to depart once his loan spell ends, Tottenham must look to invest in a prolific goalscorer in the summer. They need to bring in an upgrade on Dominic Solanke, who has endured an injury-plagued campaign in N17.
It is no surprise that the North Londoners are looking to be proactive in the market. Brentford marksman Igor Thiago has been on Tottenham’s radar for some time now. The Brazilian has been in hot form for Brentford this season, netting 24 goals in 35 appearances in all competitions thus far. With 21 goals in 33 Premier League outings, he is challenging Manchester City star Erling Haaland for the Premier League Golden Boot.
Tottenham set to face competition from Chelsea for Igor Thiago
Tottenham have been admirers of Igor Thiago, and Brentford, identifying young Ukrainian Matviy Ponomarenko as a potential replacement, shows they’d be receptive to offers for their star striker. It is worth noting that Bees would likely demand a significant fee, given that the 24-year-old signed a new contract in February until 2031 (Transfermarkt).
However, Spurs are not going to have a straight path towards signing Thiago. According to a report from TEAMtalk, Chelsea are also interested in the Brentford centre-forward. The Blues want to sign a striker after struggling for goals this season and have identified Thiago as one of their primary targets.
Chelsea, who recently parted ways with Liam Rosenier following five consecutive league defeats, are still firmly in the race to finish in the European spots. That gives them a clear edge over Spurs to compete for quality players, including Thiago, who’d be keen to play in Europe.
As for Tottenham, they must secure top-flight status to have a realistic chance of landing Thiago. The Brazilian international would be an instant upgrade on Richarlison in terms of goalscoring, hold-up play and physicality. If a deal for the Brentford star proves unattainable, the Lilywhites must switch their focus elsewhere.
Will Tottenham stay in the top flight and compete with Chelsea for the 24-year-old? Only time will tell. For now, the Hotspur Way bosses must ensure they have contingency plans in place as they prepare for a pivotal summer transfer window.