Brentford have completed the signing of Antoni Djibu Milambo, a 20-year-old Dutch midfielder, on a long-term five-year contract (with an option for a sixth year) from Feyenoord. The deal, confirmed on July 3, 2025, marks the first major addition of the Keith Andrews era at the Premier League club, who are looking to build on last season’s 10th-place finish.
Although the clubs haven’t disclosed the fee officially, credible reports suggest a base payment of €20 million (~£17 million), potentially rising to €25 million with add-ons .
Milambo’s Journey & Attributes
Milambo’s footballing roots trace back to Rotterdam, having joined Feyenoord’s academy at age nine. He became the club’s youngest-ever first-team player at just 16 years and 131 days, debuting in a Conference League tie in 2021. Over nearly five years, he amassed 60 senior appearances, scoring 8 goals and adding 9 assists across competitions .
A versatile attacking midfielder, he impressed last season not only in domestic football—with 7 goals and 8 assists in 42 appearances—but also on the European stage. Notably, he scored a memorable brace versus Benfica in the Champions League and played a pivotal role for Netherlands U21s at the European Championships.
Reddit fans celebrated his growth, with one user praising him as “Speler van de Week” and noting his blend of “functional technique” and goal-scoring ability . Another called him a “next international” and applauded his match-winning performances in Lisbon’s Champions League .
What Brentford Sees in Milambo
Brentford’s technical director, Lee Dykes, emphasized that Milambo is a skilful, forward-thinking midfielder, capable of scoring varied goals—attributes honed through his academy days, Eredivisie, and Champions League experience.
Manager Keith Andrews added that Milambo’s driving runs with the ball, creativity, and goal threat make him a valuable asset who will complement their midfield dynamic. The plan is to gradually adapt him to the pace and physicality of Premier League football.
Context & Transfer Dynamics
Milambo’s move is the latest in a growing trend of Eredivisie talents transferring to mid-table Premier League clubs. Previously, Brentford had shown interest from as early as January and agreed to personal terms well before the formal announcement. Competing Premier League sides such as Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest reportedly also pursued him, but Brentford’s pitch and project won out.
Feyenoord’s willingness to sell appears linked to a strategic plan to reinvest in their squad—having already acquired talents like Sem Steijn and Luciano Valente—and financially capitalize on their academy’s outputs.
The €20 million base fee is a record for a 20-year-old sold by Feyenoord and ranks Milambo among Brentford’s top-six transfers in club history.
Fit and Future Role at Brentford
Milambo becomes Brentford’s third key summer recruitment, joining goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher and defender Michael Kayode. All signings reflect a shift toward youth under new coach Andrews.
His arrival is timely — particularly with established midfielders like Christian Nørgaard departing and Bryan Mbeumo linked with big moves.. Milambo offers versatility, able to play as a No. 8 or No. 10, delivering ball-carrying, creativity, and finishing ability.
Debates in Dutch football circles questioned whether he was ready for the Premier League jump, but analysts highlighted his season-long development, European credentials, and clear growth potential .
Outlook & Implications
- For Milambo, the move represents a significant performance leap, with hopes of establishing himself in a competitive Premier League midfield.
- For Brentford, it aligns with a sustainable model—recruiting low-risk, high-upside talent for long-term gain.
- For Feyenoord, it underscores the club’s role as a selling academy, enabling reinvestment while maintaining buy-back or sell-on options.
Milambo will officially begin preseason training in West London ahead of Brentford’s 2025–26 opener at Nottingham Forest on August 17. Watch for his debut in August, as the Bees aim to maintain mid-table stability while nurturing a new generation of talent.
Here’s a breakdown of the transfer essentials:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Contract Length | 5 years with +1 option |
| Estimated Fee | €20m + €5m bonuses |
| Role at Brentford | Creative central/attacking midfielder |
| European Experience | Champions League goals, U21 international caps |
| Strategic Fit | Young talent for new manager, midfield reinforcement |
Brentford’s acquisition of Milambo not only enhances their midfield arsenal but also demonstrates their strategic approach to long-term club growth. For the player, it’s the next vital step toward Premier League recognition. Exciting times lie ahead for both the club and this talented Dutch prospect.
