Brentford's new club-record signing Igor Thiago out of action until end of year following surgery

New Brentford signing Igor Thiago out of action until end of year following surgery

Brentford's new club-record signing Igor Thiago is expected to only return to action at the end of 2024 following successful surgery on a knee injury.

The 23-year-old Brazilian forward suffered a meniscus problem on July 20 after scoring twice during the Bees' 5-2 friendly victory over AFC Wimbledon.

Thiago joined the Premier League club at the start of the month, having agreed his reported £30million transfer from Club Brugge in February.

"The striker will now begin a period of recovery and rehabilitation and is expected to return towards the end of the year," read a statement on Brentford's website.

Thiago scored 18 goals across 34 league outings last season to help Club Brugge win the Belgian title.

He previously played for Bulgarian club Ludogorets after beginning his career in his homeland with Cruzeiro.