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Bayern Munich Eyes Brentford's Igor Thiago as Backup Striker Despite Transfer Freeze

Bayern Munich is reportedly interested in Brentford striker Igor Thiago to serve as a reliable backup for Harry Kane, even though the club had previously announced a summer transfer freeze. The search for a traditional number nine seems to have reignited at the Allianz Arena despite earlier statements suggesting no further signings would be made.

Bayern Seeks Depth Up Front

The Bundesliga champions want to strengthen their attacking options and have identified Thiago as an ideal fit to support Kane. Italian journalist Nicolo Schira reports that Bayern has shown serious interest in the Brentford forward and initiated early talks about a possible move to Germany.

The urgency for a natural backup intensified after Nicolas Jackson returned to Chelsea following his loan spell with Bayern. While Kane remains the key figure in attack, the absence of a direct replacement has forced the club to revisit their transfer stance.

Thiago’s Premier League Success Comes With Challenges

Last season, Thiago impressed in England by scoring 22 goals and assisting once over 38 Premier League appearances, finishing just behind Manchester City’s Erling Haaland as the league’s second top scorer. The Brazilian’s performance has attracted Bayern’s attention but acquiring him won’t be straightforward.

Thiago’s contract with Brentford runs until June 2031 and reportedly contains no release clause, making any transfer negotiation potentially costly for Bayern.

Kane’s Future at Bayern Looks Secure

Harry Kane is set to remain a Bayern legend as he prepares to discuss extending his contract with the club. The 33-year-old striker has been in excellent form since his arrival in Germany, scoring 61 goals in 51 matches across all competitions last season. His total at Bayern stands at 146 goals from 147 appearances.

Kane’s commitment is driven by his ambition to win the Champions League, a target he believes is achievable with the current squad.

Summer Strategy and Internal Options

Before the rumors surrounding Thiago emerged, Bayern’s sporting director Max Eberl stated that the club’s summer recruitment was complete. The team strengthened specific areas by signing Nathaniel Brown from Eintracht Frankfurt for full-back depth and Ismael Saibari from PSV Eindhoven to boost creativity on the wings.

Head coach Vincent Kompany still has internal solutions to cover when Kane needs rest. Serge Gnabry has often played centrally, providing a versatile alternative to a classic number nine.