Alex Keble looks at what Brentford need to do in the summer transfer window to improve their squad.
Brentford
Thomas Frank’s side needs a fair bit of work. In goal, Brentford’s post-shot xG minus goals allowed (essentially a measure of shot-stopping) is -7.13, the fifth-lowest figure in the division, suggesting seven extra goals were conceded compared to the average.
The drop-off from David Raya is stark. Brentford conceded 46 goals in 2022/23 and 65 in 2023/24, a 19-goal increase.
But if Brentford could upgrade in central defence instead, they might kill two birds with one stone - last season they only scored 10 set-piece goals, despite ranking second for set-piece xG, with 15.72.
A centre-back who is strong in the air at both ends would relieve pressure on Mark Flekken, and perhaps improve their set-piece goalscoring.
If Ivan Toney, who managed only four goals last season, is sold, a centre-forward could be a priority. Whether 6ft 2in forward Igor Thiago, who is joining from Club Brugge on 1 July, can hit the ground running will be crucial.
Brentford scored the 11th-most headed goals, with 10, despite topping the charts for completed crosses into the penalty area, with 106.
Finally, more creativity is needed from the flanks. Only three non-relegated clubs created fewer chances than Brentford’s 332, while the Bees were bottom for successful take-ons, with 243. Some trickery and flair wouldn’t go amiss.
Key positions to target: Goalkeeper, centre-back, winger, centre-forward
Ins and outs so far
| Player | Transfer Type | Club | Full Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Igor Thiago |  Transfer In |
Club Brugge | Details |
| Shandon Baptiste |  Released |
- | Details |
| Saman Ghoddos | Released |
- | Details |
| Charlie Goode | Released |
- | Details |
| Neal Maupay |  End of loan |
Everton | Details |
| Sergio Reguilon | End of loan |
Tottenham Hotspur | Details |
| Ellery Balcombe | Loan Out |
St Mirren | Details |
(Last updated: 6 June)