Brentford ‘Reach Agreement’ to Sign £42m Premier League Forward | OneFootball

Brentford Close In On Club-Record Move for Dango Ouattara

Brentford are on the verge of sealing a major statement signing, having reached an agreement in principle to bring winger Dango Ouattara from Bournemouth in a £42 million deal, according to Sky Sports. The move will set a new club record, surpassing the £30 million paid for Igor Thiago from Club Bruges last summer, and marks another step in the Bees’ evolution as an established Premier League force.

Determined Pursuit Over 72 Hours

The 23-year-old Burkina Faso international has been the subject of intense negotiations between the clubs over the past three days. “Bournemouth were reluctant to sell, but after Ouattara made it clear he wanted to leave, the Cherries had no option but to allow him to go for a price they felt was fair market value, which includes add-ons,” Sky Sports reported.

This decisive shift in stance reflects both the player’s ambition to take on a new challenge and Brentford’s persistence in landing their target. Ouattara is expected to undergo a medical within the next 24 hours, with the deal poised to be finalised shortly afterwards.

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Impact Player With Premier League Experience

Ouattara has quickly built a reputation in England since joining Bournemouth from Lorient in January 2023. In 88 appearances, he has scored 11 goals and contributed to numerous key attacking moments for the Cherries. His pace, direct running, and versatility make him a potent threat, capable of operating across the frontline.

Brentford’s recruitment strategy has consistently targeted players with proven top-flight pedigree and the potential for further development. Ouattara fits that mould perfectly, arriving at a stage in his career where his best years may still be ahead.

Bournemouth’s Replacement Plans

Bournemouth’s focus now turns to sourcing a replacement, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Amine Adli emerging as a key target. The Cherries will have funds to reinvest, but losing a player with Ouattara’s energy and adaptability will inevitably leave a gap.

Photo: IMAGO

Ouattara’s departure was not initially on Bournemouth’s summer agenda. However, his clear desire to leave, combined with Brentford’s willingness to meet their valuation, left the south coast club with limited room for manoeuvre.

Statement of Intent From Brentford

For Brentford, this move signals serious intent. Breaking their transfer record twice in successive summers reflects both financial stability and a belief that targeted investment can push them further up the Premier League table. Ouattara’s arrival will add depth to their wide options and could help unlock more chances for forwards like Thiago and Bryan Mbeumo.

If the deal is finalised as expected, the Bees will have pulled off one of the most notable transfers of their Premier League journey so far.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Brentford supporters, this deal feels like a bold and calculated risk. Spending £42 million is a significant outlay for a club still considered among the smaller operators in the Premier League, but the profile of Ouattara makes sense. He already knows the league, has shown he can perform against top opposition, and is young enough to improve further.

Fans will also see this as a sign the ownership is committed to keeping the club competitive in a league where standing still often means going backwards. Ouattara’s ability to stretch defences and carry the ball at pace should complement the team’s quick transitions and direct style under Keith Andrews.

There is always an element of uncertainty when a club record fee is involved, but Brentford have built their reputation on smart recruitment. If Ouattara hits the ground running, this could be the kind of signing that not only strengthens the starting XI but also reinforces the club’s ambition to challenge for a top-half finish.