Brentford transfer plans before January deadline assessed

Brentford are unlikely to be major movers before the January transfer window closes on 2 February, but a handful of outgoing decisions could still shape the final days of the market.

The Bees have enjoyed a strong first half of the season and, in keeping with their long-established recruitment model, there is no appetite for unnecessary disruption. Any late business is expected to be selective and largely player-driven.

January activity at Brentford has been minimal. The headline addition was the arrival of highly rated teenager Kaye Furo from Club Brugge, with the 18-year-old immediately integrated into the first-team environment as a long-term project rather than a short-term fix.

Alongside that, midfielder Vitaly Janelt committed his future to the club by signing a new long-term contract, reinforcing Brentford’s desire for continuity after a positive opening to the campaign under head coach Keith Andrews.

There is some internal discussion around midfield evolution. Janelt and Mathias Jensen have been central figures since promotion from the Championship, and while both remain trusted options, Brentford are always evaluating how the next phase of the squad should look.

That said, there is no pressing requirement to act in January, with Andrews broadly satisfied with depth and balance across the pitch.

Brentford’s preference has often been to plan ahead rather than react mid-season. In recent years, they have successfully used loans with options to buy — as seen with Michael Kayode and Kevin Schade — before completing permanent deals in the summer.

For now, the sense around the club is that patience is the right approach unless an unexpected opportunity arises.

If there is movement, it is more likely to involve departures. Nigerian midfielder Frank Onyeka is available for transfer and is attracting interest from Sheffield United, Coventry City and other sides. Onyeka is keen for increased game time, though Andrews is determined to retain defensive flexibility and has no desire to part with Kristoffer Ajer.

There has also been external interest in Kayode and striker Igor Thiago, who has scored 16 Premier League goals this season. Andrews, however, has been emphatic that Thiago is not for sale.

Several younger players may yet move on loan to secure minutes, including Ellery Balcombe, Julian Eyestone, Gustavo Nunes and Paris Maghoma.

Brentford’s success has been built on resisting short-term pressure in favour of sustainable squad development. Avoiding reactive January spending allows the club to preserve chemistry and financial flexibility. In a league where panic buys are common, restraint remains one of Brentford’s strongest competitive advantages.

Unless circumstances change significantly, Brentford are expected to prioritise continuity over change in the final days of the window. Any exits will be carefully managed, and incoming business would only be considered if it aligns with the club’s long-term planning.

Much of the recruitment focus is already shifting toward the summer, where Brentford traditionally operate with greater freedom and clarity.

Should Brentford stick rigidly to their long-term model or take advantage of January opportunities when they arise?