“Especially Manchester United”: 18-GA PL Star’s glowing “love and affection” confession puts Red Devils on high alert

Benjamin Sesko is now beginning to show real promise as Manchester United’s leading striker. In his last six games, the summer 2026 signing has scored five times, suggesting he has finally settled at M16. Sesko needs a capable alternative Yet while Sesko is proving to be the striker United truly needed, there remains a sense that the club’s attacking department is not quite where it should be. For all his potential, United would benefit from another top‑class forward. Adding a sharp‑shooting alternative, or even direct competition, would elevate their frontline to one of the finest in the league. Joshua Zirkzee might have been that option, but with the Dutchman heavily linked with a summer move away, United must look elsewhere. With the right addition, their attack could reach a whole new level. Strikers on the Radar Several names are already being linked with United. Jean‑Philippe Mateta and Karl Etta Eyong are reportedly on INEOS’ shortlist. But as the 20‑time English champions weigh up their options, they may be tempted to add Brentford’s in‑form striker Igor Thiago to their wishlist. Thiago battling Haaland for the Golden Boot Thiago has been prolific in front of goal, scoring 17 times this season, second only to Erling Haaland. Stepping up after the departures of Yoane Wissa and Bryan Mbeumo from the Gtech Community Stadium last summer, the Brazilian has looked every inch the real deal. And, like Ivan Toney, Wissa and Mbeumo before him, expectations are that he is destined for a big move away. United could certainly use a player of his calibre, and convincing the Samba star to follow Mbeumo to the Theatre of Dreams may not prove too difficult. Thiago’s Confession The United speculation is rightfully growing following Thiago’s recent admissions about his childhood football memories via TNT: “I wasn’t that interested in football… but then my brother made me watch the Premier League every weekend, especially Manchester United. From there it grew on me… feelings of love and affection.” “My brother made me watch the Premier League every weekend, especially Manchester United” 👀 Igor Thiago talks on how he got into football during his childhood 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/s4Pc72YaUw — Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 12, 2026 Some may interpret this as a subtle “come get me” plea, and United fans will hope INEOS take note. At 24, Thiago could be the perfect foil for Sesko. The competition between the two would push each other to greater heights, potentially putting United into prime mode. For the 20-time English champions’ opponents, that prospect would be nothing short of frightening. Featured image George Wood via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.