Brentford close in on record-breaking Sangaré as Lens lose midfielder

Mamadou Sangaré has left RC Lens’s squad as his move to Premier League side Brentford FC nears completion, according to L’Équipe. The 24‑year‑old Mali international departed the French club while they were in Italy for the Como Cup, signalling a major transfer for both clubs.

Sangaré was part of the Lens contingent in Italy but did not feature in the two matches played on Tuesday at the Como Cup. His absence was noted despite the squad’s participation in the tournament.

He will also miss the friendly against Villarreal on Saturday, having travelled to Paris ahead of the transfer’s finalisation. The midfielder’s unavailability underscores the imminent departure.

The player arrived at Lens last summer from Austrian side Rapid Vienna on a €5 million fee plus €3 million in bonuses. That initial investment set the stage for his rapid rise at the French club.

Reports now place the pending move at €48 million, which would make him Lens’s biggest ever sale and Brentford’s largest purchase. The figure reflects a record-breaking transaction for both organisations.

In his sole season in the north of France, Sangaré emerged as a standout performer, helping Lens win their maiden Coupe de France. He also contributed to the club securing automatic qualification to the UEFA Champions League after keeping Paris Saint‑Germain close to the title.

The transfer is being finalised as Sangaré prepares to join Brentford, completing a swift ascent from his Austrian origins to the Premier League. The deal marks a significant milestone for both clubs.