Lincoln City sign Brentford midfielder Yunus Konak on season-long loan

Lincoln City have completed the signing of Brentford midfielder Yunus Konak on a season-long loan, with the Championship newcomers landing what sporting director Jez George described as their “number one” midfield target.

The 20-year-old completed his move to Lincoln immediately after committing his long-term future to Brentford.

Konak has signed a new five-year contract with the Premier League club, which also includes an option for a further 12 months.

He will now spend the 2026/27 campaign at Lincoln as the Imps strengthen their squad following promotion to the Championship.

Lincoln sporting director George revealed Konak was at the top of the club's list when searching for a new midfielder this summer.

The Turkey Under-21 international primarily operates as a number six and Lincoln believe his defensive qualities are particularly well suited to their style.

“As a number six, we feel as though all his out of possession attributes fit perfectly to our game model,” George told the club's official website.

Lincoln also believe they can help Konak improve the possession side of his game during his season at the club.

Despite being only 20, Konak already has experience in both the Premier League and Championship.

He joined Brentford from Sivasspor in January 2024 and has since made 10 substitute appearances in the Premier League.

The midfielder spent the latter stages of last season on loan at Oxford United.

He featured 16 times in the Championship, although Oxford were ultimately relegated to League One.

That experience could prove valuable for a Lincoln side adjusting to the demands of the second tier after a lengthy absence.

Brentford's decision to hand Konak a new long-term contract before allowing him to leave underlines their continued belief in his potential.

His new deal runs for five years and includes the possibility of another season.

The loan therefore gives Konak an opportunity to secure regular Championship football without Brentford losing control over his long-term future.

Lincoln, meanwhile, gain a young midfielder who has already experienced football at this level and has been specifically identified as a strong tactical fit.

Konak will now link up with Lincoln as they prepare for their next Championship fixture against Portsmouth on Saturday.

The Imps began their first second-tier campaign in 65 years with a defeat against Middlesbrough, and Konak could now be in contention for his debut at the weekend.

For Brentford, the focus will be on monitoring the midfielder's development as he looks to secure the regular Championship minutes that could prepare him for a bigger role with the Premier League club in the future.