Aston Villa boss Unai Emery is looking for a long-term replacement for England striker Ollie Watkins

Aston Villa bosses are eyeing a surprise move for Brentford’s strike sensation Igor Thiago. Villa boss Unai Emery has targeted the Brazilian as a long-term replacement for Ollie Watkins - also signed from the Bees by the Villans.

The Spaniard had been keen to sign a new forward since last summer, but still haven’t secured a like-for-like replacement for Jhon Duran since he left in January. Now Villa could make a move for Thiago in the January transfer window - but it won’t come cheap.

Thiago, who cost Brentford £30m from Club Brugge in 2024 but missed last season due to injury, has been in red hot form so far this season. The 24-year-old had scored 10 goals in 13 appearances prior to

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