Aston Villa are preparing a stunning January transfer move for Brentford's Brazilian striker Igor Thiago, with manager Unai Emery identifying the 24-year-old as the perfect long-term replacement for struggling centre-forward Ollie Watkins.
Villa's Striking Crisis
The Midlands club find themselves in urgent need of attacking reinforcements as current first-choice striker Ollie Watkins has managed just one goal in 17 appearances across all competitions this season. The England international, who turns 30 next month, has endured a difficult campaign, prompting Emery to accelerate his search for competition and eventual succession.
Villa had been keen to sign a new forward during the summer transfer window but failed to secure their targets. The situation became more pressing after the club sold promising Colombian striker Jhon Duran to Saudi Arabia last January without finding a direct replacement.
Thiago's Meteoric Rise
Igor Thiago has emerged as one of the Premier League's standout performers since his £30 million move from Club Brugge in 2024. The Brazilian sensation has taken English football by storm, scoring an impressive 10 goals in his first 13 appearances for Brentford prior to their weekend fixture against Burnley.
Emery has been closely monitoring Thiago's progress and is reportedly a huge admirer of the striker's capabilities. Villa bosses believe a January move is crucial to beat what they anticipate will be significant competition for the player's signature next summer if he maintains his current scoring rate.
January Transfer Strategy
Aston Villa are prepared to test Brentford's resolve with a substantial £50 million bid when the transfer window reopens in January. The club's hierarchy recognises that Thiago's value could skyrocket if he continues his prolific form throughout the season.
Villa had also explored alternative options, including a potential loan move for Real Madrid's highly-rated wonderkid Endrick. However, the Brazilian teenager appears destined for French side Lyon, forcing Villa to focus their efforts squarely on securing Thiago.
The proposed transfer represents a significant statement of intent from Villa as they look to strengthen their attacking options for the second half of the season and beyond, with Thiago viewed as the ideal candidate to eventually take over from Watkins as the club's leading striker.
