Brentford facing huge Ivan Toney transfer dilemma as record-signing Igor Thiago ruled out until end of 2024 after knee surgery

The Bees signed Brazilian forward Thiago from Club Brugge in the summer transfer window after agreeing a €38 million (£30m) deal in February - setting a record for the London club and the Belgian Pro League. However, the 23-year-old has now been ruled out for several months after undergoing an operation on an injury he sustained in a friendly against Wimbledon.

A statement from the club read: "Brentford’s Igor Thiago had successful surgery on Tuesday. Thiago suffered a meniscus injury during the Bees’ 5-2 victory over AFC Wimbledon on 20 July, which has been repaired. The striker will now begin a period of recovery and rehabilitation and is expected to return towards the end of the year."

The news may have derailed Brentford's transfer plans for the rest of the summer window. Thiago was seen as a replacement for star forward Toney, who has been linked with a move away from the club for several months. Brentford had reportedly slashed their asking price for the forward in an attempt to move him on, but they may decide to keep him at the club now that their other attacking option has been ruled out.

Brentford will continue their preparations for the 2024-25 campaign with friendlies against Watford and Wolfsburg before they face Crystal Palace in the Premier League on August 18.