Brentford complete ‘massive’ signing of 16-goal Brazilian striker with fans convinced ‘Ivan Toney’s gone’
BRENTFORD have completed the signing of Igor Thiago, paving the way for Ivan Toney to leave the club.
Thiago, 22, has signed a five-year contract with the Bees with an option for a further year.
The Brazilian forward will officially sign for the club on July 1 and will remain with current employer Club Brugge for the remainder of the season.
The 6ft 2in forward has scored 16 goals for Brugge in the Belgian Pro League this season, adding ten more in games across the Europa Conference League, European qualifiers and the Croky Cup.
Reports suggest the fee for the forward is in the region of £30million.
On the deal, Brentford boss Thomas Frank said: “I’m very pleased that we have been proactive as a club; big credit to Matthew Benham, Phil Giles and Lee Dykes for the hard work they have done. We are ahead of the curve.
“We have signed a key player for a key position. Thiago is a very exciting striker who fits the role in our team.
“He is hard working and a very good pressing player. He is also a physical presence, very good in the box and can link the play.
“He’s progressing well in the Belgian league, so there is big potential and we are looking forward to seeing him in a red and white shirt.”
The move comes amid the backdrop of intense speculation regarding the future of Bees ace Toney.
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Toney recently returned to Premier League after serving a betting ban, but has already scored three goals in four matches.
The England hopeful has been heavily linked with transfers to some of the divisions big financial hitters, namely Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United.
And ahead of any potential transfer, Bees fans have been left pleased the club have been proactive in the market.
Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, one fan said: “Smart. Replacing Toney before he leaves.”
A second said: “Wowwww this is massive.”
A third added: “Wow! Toney replacement right there. Amazing we kept that so quiet!”
While another said: “Ivan Toney gone.”
Toney joked in a cheeky interview his manager “didn’t want” him following their 2-0 win over Wolves.