Mamadou Sangaré seals record-breaking move to Brentford from Lens

After a standout season with RC Lens, Malian midfielder Mamadou Sangaré is set to embark on a new chapter with Premier League side Brentford FC. The 24-year-old talent has signed a five-year contract with the London-based club, which is believed to have paid over €45 million for his services—a fee that would make him Brentford’s most expensive acquisition to date.

Sangaré arrived in France last summer from Rapid Vienna and quickly established himself as a key player in Ligue 1, helping Lens secure a historic Coupe de France triumph and earning the prestigious Marc-Vivien Foé Award for the league’s best African player. His departure marks the end of an unforgettable season in Sang et Or colors.

Brentford’s manager, Keith Andrews, expressed his enthusiasm about the signing, stating: “Mamadou has been on our radar for some time. He perfectly matches the profile we look for—a player who excels on the pitch and embodies the values we uphold off it. I’m confident he’ll win the hearts of our fans quickly.”

Lens, in a heartfelt farewell message, praised Sangaré for delivering a “season filled with unforgettable moments” and wished him continued success in his career. The Malian international was scouted by Red Bull Salzburg after shining at Yeelen Olympique, a prominent academy in Bamako.