Lens cash in as Mamadou Sangare begins new Premier League chapter with Brentford

Mamadou Sangare has officially joined Brentford from RC Lens in a deal worth £39m, or almost €48m, before bonuses, making the Mali international the most expensive sale in the French club’s history.

The 24-year-old midfielder has signed a five-year contract with Brentford, who finished ninth in the Premier League last season. His move was confirmed on Saturday as the English club continued their efforts to establish themselves among the division’s most competitive teams.

Sangare leaves Lens after only one season, but his brief stay was enough to make him one of Ligue 1’s outstanding midfielders. The Mali international arrived from Rapid Vienna for a fee of about €8m and quickly became an important part of the side’s midfield.

His energy, aggression in challenges and ability to win back possession made him a key figure in Lens’ campaign. The club competed with the leading teams in France, including Paris Saint-Germain, before ending the season by winning the Coupe de France.

Sangare’s individual performances were also recognised. He was Ligue 1’s leading tackler and was selected in the competition’s team of the season alongside Corentin Tolisso and Vitinha, underlining how quickly he had established himself among the division’s leading players in his position.

Brentford’s interest came amid competition from several Premier League clubs. Crystal Palace were among the teams linked with the midfielder and could have offered him the chance to work again with former coach Pierre Sage.

However, Brentford ultimately persuaded Sangare to continue his development in England. The transfer gives him the opportunity to test himself in the Premier League, widely regarded as one of the most demanding competitions in world football.

For Lens, the sale represents both a major sporting loss and a landmark financial achievement. Sangare had become an indispensable player after just one season, and his departure comes as the club prepares for a Champions League campaign.

The fee means Lens have multiplied the value of their investment in the midfielder by six in the space of a year. The deal is the biggest sale in the history of the northern French club and highlights the success of their recruitment department in identifying and developing players with significant financial potential.

Sangare’s move marks the latest step in a career that has risen sharply since his arrival in France. After confirming his quality in Ligue 1, he will now face the intensity and demands of English football with Brentford.

He will be expected to build on the performances that made him such a prominent figure in France, while Lens must begin the task of replacing a midfielder who became central to their team in remarkably little time.