Brentford make first move for Colombian wonderkid Matías Orozco

Brentford have become the first club to make a formal move for Deportivo Cali midfielder Matías Orozco as they look to beat a growing list of European rivals to the highly-rated Colombian teenager.

The Bees have already opened discussions over the 18-year-old, who has emerged as one of Colombia's brightest young midfield prospects after breaking into Deportivo Cali's first team.

However, any deal is unlikely to be straightforward, with the Colombian club determined to ensure Orozco's next move is the right one both financially and professionally.

According to reports from Colombia, Brentford have submitted the first formal approach for Orozco in an attempt to move ahead of rival clubs.

Interest in the midfielder is increasing rapidly, with teams from England, Spain and the Netherlands all requesting information about his situation.

Despite Brentford's early initiative, Deportivo Cali are expected to carefully assess any proposal before making a decision.

The Colombian club are reportedly placing just as much importance on the sporting project offered to Orozco as the financial terms of any transfer.

While Brentford have established contact, there are currently no advanced negotiations between the clubs.

Local reports suggest Deportivo Cali would prefer the teenager to continue his development in Colombia rather than leave immediately.

If Orozco is sold, the club will only consider a permanent transfer, with no interest in negotiating a loan agreement.

That stance means Brentford's opening approach is viewed as an attempt to position themselves early rather than secure an immediate deal.

Orozco has already established himself in Deportivo Cali's senior squad despite being just 18 years old.

The midfielder has made 14 first-team appearances this season, scoring two goals while impressing with his maturity and all-round game.

Comfortable in possession and capable of contributing at both ends of the pitch, Orozco has earned praise for his technical quality, pressing ability and composure beyond his years.

Those performances have now attracted attention from clubs across Europe, with Brentford becoming the first to make a concrete move.

Deportivo Cali are expected to evaluate Brentford's approach while monitoring interest from other European clubs. The Bees have secured an early advantage, but any deal will likely depend on convincing both the Colombian club and Orozco that their long-term project offers the best pathway for his development.