Aston Villa are preparing a potential January transfer swoop for Brentford striker Igor Thiago as manager Unai Emery seeks to address his side's concerning lack of goals in the Premier League.
Villa's Attacking Struggles
The Villans have managed to score just nine goals in the Premier League this season, a tally that places them level with Leeds United and only above the division's bottom two clubs. This attacking deficiency comes despite Villa boasting the sixth-best defensive record in the league, highlighting where their problems truly lie.
Ollie Watkins' form has become a particular concern, with the striker finding the net just once this campaign. His omission from Thomas Tuchel's latest England squad, reportedly for fitness reasons, underscores his struggles. With no other recognised striker in the squad, Villa have had little choice but to persist with Watkins despite his apparent discomfort.
The Thiago Solution
According to reports from ESPN Brazil and Trivela, Aston Villa have made contact with Brentford regarding Brazilian striker Igor Thiago. The 24-year-old has enjoyed an impressive start to the season, scoring six times in 10 matches to rank joint-second in the Premier League's scoring charts.
Thiago's strong form is particularly notable given his difficult start in English football. Signed for £30 million from Club Brugge in summer 2024, two knee injuries limited him to just 169 minutes of football throughout the 2024/25 campaign. This season represents his first proper opportunity to showcase his talents in the Premier League.
Villa face competition for his signature, with Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United also making enquiries to understand his price and availability. Brentford are said to be determined to keep hold of their in-form striker.
Champions League Ambitions
The potential signing of Thiago could prove transformative for Villa's season. Defensively solid and boasting quality in midfield, the addition of a proven goalscorer might be the final piece needed to mount a serious Champions League push.
Thiago's credentials are impressive - he has demonstrated his goalscoring ability across multiple countries including Brazil, Bulgaria, Belgium and now England. His experience in European competitions, with 31 appearances across three major tournaments, could also prove valuable as Villa progress in the Europa League.
His successful adaptation to the Premier League and ability to fill the void left by Brentford favourites Bryan Mbeumo, Yoane Wissa and Ivan Toney suggests he possesses the mentality to thrive under pressure. With a Brazil international call-up believed to be imminent, Thiago could potentially represent his country at next summer's World Cup as an Aston Villa player if Emery gets his wish.
