Manchester United have moved decisively in the transfer market, opening discussions to try and sign the only Premier League forward currently delivering goal numbers close to those of Erling Haaland.
After several seasons spent searching for a striker who can provide relentless consistency and clinical finishing every single week, the club believe they may finally have identified the right profile — and he has been performing at an elite level in full view of everyone.
The player generating this surge of interest is Igor Thiago, the dynamic Brazilian forward representing Brentford FC. In his debut Premier League season, the 24-year-old has scored 17 goals in just 26 appearances, immediately establishing himself among the competition’s most prolific attackers.
Only Haaland has managed to maintain a superior goal tally, which emphasizes how extraordinary Thiago’s emergence has been. When the noise and media excitement are stripped away, the statistics alone underline his quality.
Reaching 17 goals before the decisive final stretch of the campaign is typically the kind of output that places a striker firmly in contention for the Golden Boot.
United’s pursuit is reportedly serious rather than speculative. Initial talks have begun regarding a potential transfer package that could rise to £71 million — notably similar to the sum United previously paid Brentford for Bryan Mbeumo.
That acquisition has proven to be a smart investment, with Mbeumo adapting quickly and effectively to life at Old Trafford.
His success appears to have strengthened the club’s confidence in revisiting Brentford as a source of top-tier attacking talent.
Thiago’s appeal extends well beyond his impressive scoring record. His game is built on a blend of physical strength, sharp movement, and ruthless finishing ability.
He can operate independently as a central striker, using his power to unsettle defenders, while also possessing the awareness and technical skill required to link up effectively in tight spaces.
Importantly, he is already fully accustomed to the pace, intensity, and physical demands of English football.
There would be no lengthy adjustment period — he has already proven his ability to perform against established Premier League defenses.
Interest in Thiago is not limited to Manchester. Several major European clubs are reportedly monitoring his progress, fully aware that proven strikers entering their prime years are scarce and highly valuable assets. Brentford, however, are not in a vulnerable negotiating position.
The club recently secured Thiago on a new contract and regard him as fundamental to their long-term ambitions.
Sources close to the player suggest he is settled and focused on continuing his development rather than pushing aggressively for a move.
This creates a complex situation for United. Financial power alone may not be sufficient; the overall sporting vision must be compelling.
With Michael Carrick implementing a clearer attacking structure and creative figures such as Bruno Fernandes providing opportunities, Old Trafford offers both prestige and competitive ambition.
The broader objective is unmistakable: build an attacking unit capable of matching the firepower of their city rivals.
For years, the gap between United and the champions across Manchester has often been symbolized by the presence of a dominant, clinical number nine.
Securing Thiago would represent more than squad reinforcement — it would signal a genuine intention to compete head-on at the highest level.
Although negotiations remain in the early stages and competition for his signature is intense, United’s proactive approach demonstrates ambition.
If they manage to complete the deal, they would not simply be signing another forward; they would be acquiring one of the few strikers currently capable of matching the league’s most formidable scorer step for step — a move that could significantly reshape their competitive trajectory.
