Said Benrahma starred in Brentford’s convincing 3-0 victory over West London rivals Fulham last night. The Algerian winger found the net twice in a brilliant individual performance and was praised by manager Thomas Frank. It was Benrahma’s first start of the season – on-going speculation has delayed his introduction to Brentford’s Championship campaign.
The Bees manager Thomas Frank remains unsure whether Benrahma will leave, but believes his performance against Fulham only adds to his Brentford’s valuation of the player.
Said Benrahma ‘Has Added a Few Million to His Price’ Says Thomas Frank
Constant Speculation During this Summer
Said Benrahma is a player who has been central to a number of clubs’ transfer plans. Premier League newcomers Leeds United, as well as Arsenal, Chelsea and West Ham United have shown an interest in the Algerian.
More recently, Crystal Palace have shown a particular attraction to Benrahma. The Eagles were hopeful of using the money generated by the sale of Alexander Sorloth to help part-fund a move for the Brentford star.
An Expected Hefty Price-Tag
The Bees have built up a reputation for having one of the smartest transfer policies in the world. Their ability to buy young players for cheap and sell them for a high sum has transformed the club immensely. One example is now Brighton & Hove Albion striker Neal Maupay. He was bought from Saint-Etienne as an U21 international for £1.6 million and after two prolific spells in the Championship, he was bought by the Seagulls for £16 million.
Additionally, Ollie Watkins became a more recent example of Brentford’s transfer success. Despite picking up the 24-year-old from League Two side Exeter City, he came with a seemingly high £1.8 million fee. However, after consecutive successful seasons with the Bees, Aston Villa secured his services for a fee that could reach £33 million.
Thomas Frank Unaware of Benrahma’s Next Move
Speaking after the 3-0 win, Frank said: “If the price is right we are open to selling. But, if not we will be happy for him to stay.
“I’m confident that I would love him to stay, and I would love to have him. But I don’t know, honestly. Either we are going to get a top price or we are going to keep one of the best players in the Championship.
“Has he added a few million to his price? 100 per cent.”
Goalkeeper Boost
If Benrahma does end up leaving, the Bees now know that they won’t have two star players to replace after they confirmed earlier today that goalkeeper David Raya has signed a new four-year contract.
✍ We are delighted to announce @daviidraya1 has signed a new long-term deal with us
👉 https://t.co/kWQvSDiNlU#BrentfordFC pic.twitter.com/zEOw96Sgvg
— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) October 2, 2020
The Spaniard was the subject of intense transfer speculation this summer, most notably from Premier League side Arsenal. However, once the Gunner turned their attention to Runar Alex Runarsson instead, Raya entered talks over a new deal.
His new contract will see him stay with the club until 2024.
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