Arsenal have identified Brentford striker Igor Thiago as a priority target for next season. This is setting up a potential battle with Manchester United for one of the Premier League’s most in-demand forwards.
The Brazilian has enjoyed a remarkable rise over the last 12 months. After establishing himself as Brentford’s main attacking threat, he has now featured in a World Cup for Brazil.
And even though his big stage debut was not one to remember, he continues to attract attention from several major European clubs. Arsenal and Manchester United are the latest names to emerge from the Brazilian press.
Arteta sees ideal profile
According to RTI Esporte, Mikel Arteta’s side have stepped up their interest in the striker and now view him as one of their preferred options to strengthen the attack ahead of the 2026/27 season.
That could create a direct battle with Manchester United, who are also reported to be monitoring the player’s situation closely.
As we already covered, Igor Thiago’s performances have made him one of the standout stories of the Premier League season.
The Brentford forward scored 17 Premier League goals and more than 20 goals in all competitions. He established himself as a reliable source of goals. Furthermore, he also offers the physical presence and work rate modern top clubs demand from their centre-forwards.
According to the Brazilian report, Arteta has followed the striker’s development since before his move to England. He believes his profile would fit Arsenal’s attacking structure.
His ability to operate as a penalty-box reference, press aggressively from the front and contribute in transition are all said to be qualities admired by the Arsenal manager.
The report adds that sporting director Andrea Berta is working to strengthen the squad for next season. Furthermore, he sees a striker already adapted to English football as an attractive option.
Manchester United remain attentive
Manchester United are also credited with an interest in the Brentford man.
The Old Trafford side are expected to continue assessing attacking options this summer and Igor Thiago is reportedly viewed as a player capable of adding another dimension to their forward line.
Whether United move beyond monitoring remains to be seen, but their presence in the race could help push Brentford’s demands even higher.
That will not concern the west London club.
Brentford in strong position
Brentford have little incentive to rush into negotiations and are fully aware of the growing market around their striker.
Recent reports from Brazil have linked Igor Thiago with Chelsea, Atlético Madrid and Juventus. Meanwhile, Brentford are believed to value him at around £77m (€90m).
Theplayer’s World Cup call-up has only strengthened his position. So Arsenal and Manchester United would likely have to make a major financial commitment.
For Brentford, meanwhile, the growing list of admirers is exactly the situation they would have hoped for when Igor Thiago began turning goals into headlines.