Transfer: Mamadou Sangaré becomes Brentford's most expensive signing in history

The player cost 48 million euros

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Transfer: Mamadou Sangaré becomes Brentford's most expensive signing in history

Brentford have made a major statement in the transfer market. The London club has officially announced the arrival of Mamadou Sangaré from RC Lens, completing a historic transfer for the Bees. The Malian international midfielder thus becomes the most expensive signing in the history of Brentford.

The 24-year-old has signed a five-year contract with an option for an additional season. According to Sky Sports News, the deal is worth around £39 million, or nearly €48 million—a sum that surpasses all previous investments by the London club.

A reward after a sensational season with Lens

This record transfer comes on the heels of a remarkable debut season for Mamadou Sangaré in Ligue 1. Having joined RC Lens in the summer of 2025 after a stint at Rapid Vienna, the Malian midfielder quickly secured a starting spot in Pierre Sage's side.

Across 33 appearances in all competitions, he netted 3 goals and provided 4 assists, playing a pivotal role in a historic campaign for the Sang et Or. Lens finished runners-up in France, just a few points behind Paris Saint-Germain, before clinching the Coupe de France—their first ever trophy in this competition.

Beyond his attacking stats, it was Sangaré’s overall influence on the pitch that truly stood out. Tireless in recovering possession, he ended the season with 207 recoveries—the highest tally in Ligue 1. He also led the league in successful tackles with 52, underlining his credentials as a modern midfielder adept at winning the ball, pressing, and launching attacks.

His performances earned him a spot in the Ligue 1 Team of the Year at the UNFP Awards and the Marc-Vivien Foé Prize, awarded to the best African player in the French top flight. He became the first Malian international to win this prestigious honor.

From Bamako to the Premier League: a story of steady progress

Born in Bamako, Mamadou Sangaré began his development at Yeelen Olympique before joining Red Bull Salzburg in 2020. He built his European experience with several loan spells in Austria and Belgium.

After stints at FC Liefering, Grazer AK, Zulte Waregem, and TSV Hartberg, he truly made his mark at Rapid Vienna. In his first full season with the Austrian club, he played 44 matches in all competitions, notably helping them in their European campaign in the UEFA Conference League.

This consistent progression convinced Lens to take a chance on him—before Brentford decided to make a major investment to bring him to the Premier League.

Brentford land their new midfield general

Bees manager Keith Andrews hailed the arrival of a player who fits the club’s identity.

"Mamadou is a player we've been tracking for a long time. Last season was a key milestone in his development. He showed incredible consistency in a team that finished second in Ligue 1," the coach explained.

He added:

"He brings qualities we didn’t previously have in our midfield. He’s exactly the kind of player we’re looking for at Brentford, both on and off the pitch."

A Malian international since 2024, Sangaré has already earned 16 caps with the Eagles of Mali and has established himself as a key figure for his national team.

He's here and he's everything we want 😍
— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) August 1, 2026

With this record signing, Brentford are making it clear that they’re ready to take the next step. After unveiling several talents in recent years, the London club is now counting on Mamadou Sangaré to become a cornerstone of their Premier League project.