Aston Villa line up ‘shock’ Brentford transfer, Unai Emery sanctions £50m bid
Aston Villa are reportedly interested in signing Brentford’s Igor Thiago as a long-term Ollie Watkins replacement.
Watkins has started consistently for Villa despite his lacklustre start to the Premier League season.
The ex-Brentford star’s last league goal for the Villans came in their 3-1 win over Fulham back in September but fans will be hoping that he ends that goalless streak when Villa face Wolves at Villa Park on Sunday.
However, as it stands, the club’s hierarchy is already studying their options for his replacement at Watkins’ former club.
Aston Villa want more competition for Ollie Watkins
As one can imagine, Watkins’ limited output at Villa this season has been cause for concern.
As a result, Villa are “plotting a shock move” for Thiago this January transfer window, according to the print version of the Sunday Mirror (page 68, 30 November).
It is understood that Unai Emery is targeting the Brazilian sensation as a long-term option for Watkins.
- He cost Brentford £30million from Club Brugge in 2024
- He has netted 12 goals in 14 club appearances this season
- Only Erling Haaland has scored more league goals
The Villa boss is keen to provide competition for the England international after a difficult start to the season.
Thiago is not expected to come cheap, but Emery is a “huge” fan and the Villa manager is prepared to offer £50m to secure his signature.
Aston Villa must strike while the iron’s hot
Villa are keen to arm Emery with reinforcements, and Thiago could be the perfect boost this winter.
However, his impressive form in the Premier League would’ve undoubtedly caught the attention of several clubs in and around Europe.
As a result, there is a strong chance that Villa could face competition for his signing.
With Watkins underperforming in the Premier League and showing minimal signs of improvement, the Villans will need goals to keep their top-four dream alive.
Therefore, the club should not only make their intentions clear, but actively pursue Thiago the moment the January transfer window opens.
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