Rafa Benítez targets Brentford’s Matias Jensen for January transfer

Rafa Benítez is using his Premier League knowledge to shape Panathinaikos’ January recruitment plans, with Brentford midfielder Matias Jensen emerging as a leading target — though any deal looks far from straightforward.

Reports from Denmark and Greece suggest the Super League side are keen to bolster their midfield options next month, but Brentford are well placed to complicate negotiations.

According to Tipsbladet, relaying information from the Greek Hat Trick Show podcast, Panathinaikos boss Rafa Benítez has identified Jensen as a potential addition.

Journalist Evaggelos Michos claims Benítez is actively leveraging his experience in England to pinpoint players who could adapt quickly to the Greek league. Jensen has also been offered to Panathinaikos by his agency, CAA Stellar, further accelerating discussions.

At first glance, Jensen’s contract status appears favourable to potential suitors. His current deal with Brentford expires in the summer, which led Panathinaikos to explore the possibility of a cut-price January move.

However, Brentford retain an option to extend the midfielder’s contract by an additional year — a clause that significantly strengthens their negotiating position.

That option means the Bees are under no immediate pressure to sell, even if Jensen enters the final months of his current agreement.

Greek outlet Sportal has backed up the interest, reporting that Jensen is among several midfield options under consideration as Panathinaikos look to reinforce in January.

The belief is that the Denmark international is open to a new challenge, a factor that has encouraged the Athens-based club to explore a deal.

Jensen’s market value is estimated at around €12m, but Sportal claim Brentford could be willing to listen to offers in the region of €7–8m, largely due to the contract timeline — despite the extension option.

Panathinaikos’ technical director Miguel Ángel Corona is said to have already made contact with Brentford, Jensen and his representatives.

CAA Stellar’s involvement could prove influential, particularly given their existing relationship with Panathinaikos following Facundo Pellistri’s move from Manchester United to the Greek club in 2024.

January negotiations are likely to hinge on Brentford’s willingness to activate their contract extension option. If they do, Panathinaikos’ leverage diminishes significantly.

If not, the Greek side may push for a reduced fee, banking on Jensen’s openness to a new challenge and Benítez’s pull. Much will depend on how firm Brentford choose to be — and whether Panathinaikos are prepared to meet their valuation.

Would Jensen be a smart January addition for Panathinaikos — or should Brentford keep hold of him until the summer?