Mamadou Sangaré joins Brentford in record-breaking move from RC Lens

After a standout season with RC Lens, Malian midfielder Mamadou Sangaré has officially signed with Brentford FC, marking a historic transfer for the London-based club. The 24-year-old’s departure follows a remarkable campaign in which he became a key figure in Ligue 1, lifting the Coupe de France and earning the prestigious Marc-Vivien Foé Award, reserved for the championship’s top African talent.

The transfer, estimated by British media at over €45 million, secures Sangaré’s services for five seasons at Brentford. His arrival makes him the club’s most expensive signing to date, a testament to his rapid rise in European football. Arriving in France last summer from Rapid Wien, the young playmaker quickly established himself in Lens’ starting lineup, delivering performances that caught the attention of top European clubs.

Keith Andrews, Brentford’s head coach, expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition: “Mamadou has been on our radar for some time. He embodies everything we look for in a Brentford player—on and off the pitch. I’m confident he’ll become a firm favorite with the fans.”

RC Lens, meanwhile, bid farewell to the Malian international, praising his contributions during a “season filled with unforgettable moments”. Born in Bamako, Sangaré was first scouted by Red Bull Salzburg after shining at the Yeelen Olympique academy in Mali’s capital.