Man Utd consider signing Premier League star to replace £36.5m transfer flop
Manchester United have discussed making a move for Brentford striker Igor Thiago as they look to sell Joshua Zirkzee this summer, according to reports.
Zirkzee joined two years ago from Bologna in a £36.5million deal, but has scored only nine goals in 75 appearances for the Red Devils.
The Dutch striker featured sparingly following Carrick’s arrival and looks likely to be moved on this summer, with clubs in Italy keen on bringing Zirkzee back to Serie A.
Juventus are frontrunners and want to sign the Netherlands international on a season-long loan with an option to make the move permanent next summer.
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United, however, would prefer a permanent sale but would need to replace Zirkzee before the end of the summer transfer window.
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And transfer journalist Ben Jacobs reports that Thiago is a name under consideration after his impressive return last season.
The 25-year-old racked up 22 goals in 38 league appearances, with his blistering form earning him a call-up to Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the World Cup.
Thiago signed a new contract with Brentford in February which expires in 2031, but United have still made enquiries to understand the player’s situation.
‘Igor Thiago has been discussed as somebody who’s Premier League ready,’ Jacobs told The United Stand.
‘Nothing more than that at this stage, more of an internal conversation and a normal player call to understand his situation.
‘Getting him out this summer is going to be incredibly difficult.’
Elsewhere, United have also been linked with Dusan Vlahovic after he left Juventus on a free transfer at the end of last season.
The Serbian international scored ten goals for Juventus last season and has reportedly already received an offer to join Turkish side Besiktas.
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United are also keeping tabs on Ollie Watkins’ situation at Aston Villa, with the Englishman also attracting interest from Turkey.
The Red Devils have already signed Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans to bolster their midfield, while Karl Darlow has joined from Leeds United to serve as a back-up for Senne Lammens.
The club are still said to be keen to add another central midfielder, with Carlos Baleba and Manu Kone two names under consideration.
And United may also look to table a bid for Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall, who is reportedly ‘keen’ to switch St James’ Park for Old Trafford this summer.
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Article source: https://metro.co.uk/2026/07/30/man-utd-consider-signing-premier-league-star-replace-36-5m-transfer-flop-29263291/