At Barcelona’s offices, the focus has shifted from the present to the future, particularly as the club’s management recognizes that Robert Lewandowski’s era is nearing its end. Planning began early, with a clear objective: finding a striker capable of leading the attack for years to come without taking unnecessary risks.
Within this framework, Deco quietly pursued a different striker profile, one perfectly aligned with Hansi Flick’s philosophy and the demands of modern football. As the transfer market unfolded, a notable name emerged from the English Premier League: a Brazilian player enjoying an exceptional season that quickly attracted attention.
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That name is Igor Thiago, the Brentford striker who, at just 24 years old, has become one of the Premier League’s most effective forwards. His impressive tally of 16 goals has not gone unnoticed at Barcelona, especially considering it came in one of Europe’s toughest competitions.
The technical reports reviewed by Deco painted a clear picture of a player possessing three key qualities the club is looking for: strong physical presence, a keen eye for goal, and excellent teamwork. Thiago is not a flashy striker, but a true center forward who excels at pressing, capitalizing on half-chances, and battling tough defenders, giving him significant tactical value.
Barcelona believes this type of striker could be an ideal complement to players such as Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Pedri, creating space for them while contributing to organized attacks and quick transitions. A player of this profile is becoming increasingly rare, which only intensifies the club’s interest.
While comparisons to Lewandowski are inevitable, the club recognizes that Thiago represents a different kind of project. His physique and physical attributes make him, in Flick’s view, a player capable of performing at the highest level of European competition. His success in the Premier League, despite the absence of other major stars around him, reinforces the belief that he is ready to take the next step.
Another factor that makes the deal appealing is the financial aspect. The player’s value is estimated at around €35 million, a figure Barcelona considers attainable if they manage to complete one significant sale this summer. In a market where striker prices are heavily inflated, Thiago is seen as a strategic opportunity that may not come around often.
Therefore, as Lewandowski’s time at Camp Nou draws to a close, Deco has his sights set on a powerful, prolific, and ambitious Brazilian striker. A name from the Premier League could become the defining element of a new era in Barcelona’s attack
