Igor Thiago's Injury
Igor Thiago, Brentford's record signing, is set to miss the majority of the 2024 season after undergoing surgery on a knee injury. The Brazilian striker, who joined the Bees from Club Brugge in February for a club-record fee of £30 million, suffered a meniscus injury during Brentford's 5-2 victory over AFC Wimbledon on 20 July.
A club statement confirmed that Thiago will "begin a period of recovery and rehabilitation and is expected to return towards the end of the year". The 23-year-old has been capped by Brazil at youth level and was named Europa Conference League young player of the season in 2023 after scoring seven goals in the competition.
Impact on Ivan Toney's Future
Thiago's injury could impact the future of Ivan Toney, who has been linked with a move away from Brentford this summer. The England international, who scored 21 goals in 35 Premier League appearances last season, is entering the final year of his contract at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Brentford are keen to keep Toney, but the club may be forced to sell him this summer if they cannot agree on a new contract. A number of clubs, including Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and Chelsea, have been linked with a move for Toney, but no formal offers have been made.
Brentford's Transfer Plans
Brentford are expected to be active in the transfer market this summer, with manager Thomas Frank looking to strengthen his squad ahead of the new season. The Bees have already signed Keane Lewis-Potter from Hull City and Aaron Hickey from Bologna, and they are also linked with a move for Charlie Patino from Arsenal.
Brentford's transfer plans could be affected by Thiago's injury, with the club now likely to prioritize signing a new striker. A number of players have been linked with a move to the Gtech Community Stadium, including Anderlecht's Fabio Silva and Lorient's Terem Moffi.
Conclusion
Igor Thiago's injury is a blow to Brentford, who were hoping to challenge for a top-half finish in the Premier League next season. The Brazilian striker is a key player for the Bees, and his absence will be a major setback.
The injury could also have a knock-on effect on Ivan Toney's future, with the England international now likely to stay at Brentford for at least another season. Brentford are expected to be active in the transfer market this summer, with the club now likely to prioritize signing a new striker.
