Tottenham are back in the market for a centre-forward and Brentford’s Igor Thiago has jumped to the top of the gossip columns. Six Premier League goals in 10 games will do that. With Dominic Solanke injured and Randal Kolo Muani and Richarlison short on output, the need is real.
The question is not whether Spurs like the player. They do. The question is whether Brentford will sell in January. Early signals suggest “unlikely” is the honest answer right now.
Igor Thiago to Tottenham
Thomas Frank, who left Brentford for Tottenham in the summer, has been tipped to raid his former club. Thiago’s form makes the case. He is scoring, he is physical, and he fits the profile Spurs lack when their wide players aren’t creating regularly. On paper it is a clean upgrade for a short-handed forward line.
But market reality matters more than paper. The West London side are not under pressure. That sets the tone for any talks.
Brentford stance on Igor Thiago
Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness believes Thiago is very likely to stay put. Speaking on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, he said there is “no way he’s going to be leaving the club,” pointing to the summer exits of Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa as proof Brentford have already banked sales. He added there is no financial need to move another starter in January.
Wyness also referenced public comments from Keith Andrews indicating the same line: Brentford won’t let Thiago go mid-season. Put simply, Spurs can ask; Brentford can say no.
How Spurs’ striker picture shapes the odds
Tottenham’s need is obvious. Solanke is sidelined. Kolo Muani and Richarlison have not hit their stride. That opens the door for shortlisting multiple options. Spurs have also been linked with former Brentford forward Ivan Toney ahead of the window. The club will push where a deal is actually possible; that could mean a move on Toney if Thiago remains off-limits.
Timing is a factor. January is a seller’s market. Brentford gain little by weakening a team that has already lost key pieces. Spurs will have to pitch a premium or pivot.
Bottom line: chances, not chatter
Right now, the probability of Thiago to Spurs in January looks low. The player’s form is strong, but the stance in West London is stronger. Unless something shifts, an offer Brentford cannot refuse, or a late recalibration from the Bees, Tottenham may need to chase a different profile to solve their short-term nine problem.
