Brentford close in on record Mamadou Sangaré Deal amid Palace threat

Brentford are closing in on the signing of RC Lens midfielder Mamadou Sangaré, although Crystal Palace could yet rival the Bees for one of Ligue 1's standout performers.

According to L'Équipe, Brentford are in advanced negotiations to sign the 24-year-old after weeks of discussions with Lens, with a deal worth around €48 million edging closer.

If completed, the transfer would become the biggest sale in Lens' history, surpassing the €40 million departure of Loïs Openda to RB Leipzig in 2023.

Talks between Brentford and Lens have intensified in recent weeks as the Premier League club attempts to secure one of France's breakthrough midfielders.

Lens have been determined to maximise the fee for Sangaré, who only arrived from Rapid Vienna last summer in a deal worth €5 million, plus a further €3 million in potential bonuses.

Following an outstanding debut campaign in Ligue 1, the Mali international's value has risen dramatically, with Brentford now prepared to invest a club-record fee to bring him to west London.

Although an agreement had not been fully finalised on Tuesday evening, negotiations were said to be progressing positively.

Brentford's pursuit has not gone unnoticed.

Crystal Palace have also entered the race and could still submit an improved offer in an attempt to hijack the transfer.

The Eagles are now managed by former Lens head coach Pierre Sage, whose knowledge of Sangaré could prove valuable if Palace decide to increase their interest.

Whether Palace formally challenge Brentford remains to be seen, but their involvement has added fresh uncertainty to the negotiations.

Lens took no risks with Sangaré during Tuesday's pre-season fixtures in Como, Italy.

The midfielder was left out of both friendly matches to avoid any injury before his future is resolved, a strong indication that the club expect transfer discussions to reach a conclusion in the near future.

Sangaré played a pivotal role in Lens' outstanding campaign last season and established himself as one of the most influential midfielders in Ligue 1.

Brentford appear to be leading the race for one of the French league's most impressive midfielders, but Crystal Palace's late interest means the transfer is not yet complete. If the Bees finalise the proposed €48 million agreement, Sangaré will become the most expensive outgoing player in Lens' history.

Negotiations between Brentford and Lens are expected to continue over the coming days as the Bees look to finalise the transfer. Crystal Palace could yet test Lens' resolve with an improved offer before any agreement is officially completed.