Overview
- Brentford confirmed the permanent transfer of 24-year-old Mali international Mamadou Sangaré from RC Lens on August 1, 2026, in a deal reported at about €45 million.
- Sangaré has signed a five-year contract with a club option for a further year, making him the club's most expensive signing to date.
- The midfielder arrives after a breakthrough 2025–26 season at Lens in which he helped the team finish second in Ligue 1, won the Coupe de France, earned a place in the UNFP Team of the Year and won the Prix Marc-Vivien Foé.
- Head coach Keith Andrews and Sangaré have publicly backed the move, with Andrews saying the player fits Brentford's profile and Sangaré citing the club's clear interest as a key reason for joining.
- Brentford view the transfer as part of a wider recruitment plan to strengthen the squad before the window closes, with further attacking additions targeted and Lens benefiting from a significant incoming fee.