Man Utd 'put call in' for transfer move as club-record striker eyed

Manchester United are reportedly in the market for a new striker this summer, with Brentford's Igor Thiago said to be on the Red Devils' radar

Igor Thiago looks on

Manchester United are being linked with Brentford frontman Igor Thiago (Image: Getty)

Manchester United are reportedly considering a summer approach for Brentford striker Igor Thiago. It is claimed that Old Trafford representatives have made contact regarding the Bees' former record acquisition.

The 25-year-old experienced a sluggish beginning at the Gtech Community Stadium following his February 2024 arrival from Club Brugge. However, the Brazil international demonstrated his quality during his second complete season in west London, recording 26 goals across 41 outings in all competitions. Thiago's displays aided Keith Andrews' side in securing ninth position in the Premier League, coming agonisingly close to qualifying for Europe for the first time in their history.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Man Utd news

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

He also suggests that securing the Bees star will prove exceptionally challenging this summer. Thiago held Brentford's transfer record when he arrived in 2024 for £30million, though he has since been surpassed by Dango Ouattara's £42.5m switch.

The striker penned a fresh long-term deal at Brentford in February, tying his future to Andrew's outfit until at least summer 2031. Reported interest in Thiago emerges alongside claims that Juventus are holding advanced discussions over a loan deal for Red Devils striker Joshua Zirkzee. The arrangement would also feature a £30m purchase option for the Italian club.

EXPRESS SPORT ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page

Joshua Zirkzee reacts

Joshua Zirkzee could be on his way out of Old Trafford (Image: Getty)

The No.9 subsequently started for Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil at this summer's World Cup - unable to find the net as the Selecao lost in the last 16 to Norway. And talkSPORT reporter Ben Jacobs now states that the Reds are contemplating a bid for Thiago following an exceptional campaign which saw him finish as the Premier League's second top scorer last term.

It is reported that United have reached out to the forward's representatives, though discussions remain at an embryonic stage. The Dutchman has been strongly linked with an Old Trafford departure this summer, but wishes to secure a position in Michael Carrick's thinking. Zirkzee has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter during his spell at Old Trafford - unable to break into Ruben Amorim's plans or Carrick's since his arrival in Manchester under Erik ten Hag in 2024.

The 25-year-old has recorded just five goals across 56 Premier League outings for United. The Reds are understood to be receptive to Zirkzee's departure this summer, though the former Bayern Munich prospect is believed to be happy to remain.

Zirkzee delivered an encouraging display in United's 5-0 pre-season victory against Rosenborg last Friday. Yet his showings in the Premier League have fallen short of expectations. The Dutch forward is currently behind Benjamin Sesko and Mateus Cunha in the hierarchy, and Marcus Rashford's possible return to the squad could push him down the order even further.