Brentford announced the signing of Brazilian striker Igor Thiago from Club Brugge on Wednesday, in a move that is set to spark further speculation over the future of Ivan Toney at the Premier League club.
Thiago, who has scored 26 goals in 40 appearances this season, will join Brentford in July.
Toney is the subject of interest from the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea and Brentford boss Thomas Frank conceded earlier this month that the 27-year-old is "likely" to be sold this summer.
We're delighted to announce the signing of forward Igor Thiago from Club Brugge 🙌
— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) February 14, 2024
✍ The Brazilian has penned a five-year contract and will join us on 1 July
“I’m very pleased that we have been proactive as a club," Toney told the Brentford website on the news of Thiago's arrival.
"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."
💬 Thomas Frank on Igor Thiago
— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) February 14, 2024
"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.
"There is big potential and we are looking forward to seeing him in a red and white shirt" 🔴⚪ pic.twitter.com/adKEH1nhqF
Toney has missed most the season after being hit with an eight-month ban for hundreds of breaches of betting regulations.
However, he has shown little sign of rustiness on his return, scoring three goals in four games to help drag the Bees six points clear of the Premier League relegation zone.