Brentford have entered the race for Independiente del Valle midfielder Darwin Guagua, with claims in Ecuador suggesting they could now sign him. The 18-year-old had been strongly linked with Birmingham City, but Sunday’s developments have brought the Bees into the picture. One source even has Guagua “very close” to a Brentford move. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 9th in Premier League, 53 pts, 14W-11D-13L from 38 games, recent form DDLWL.
What happened?
Darwin Guagua’s situation was updated by reliable Ecuadorian insider MrOffisder on Sunday afternoon. He reports Brentford are another possible destination for the Ecuador international. Independiente del Valle’s directors are expected to define the terms of his sale this week. That is an interesting development given the claims surrounding Birmingham City over the past couple of days. Guagua appeared to be heading to St Andrew’s, with the Championship club said to have “practically finalised” the operation.
Why it matters for Brentford
Independiente del Valle general manager Santiago Morales had been more careful on Saturday. He confirmed talks were taking place but stressed nothing was signed. All that caution now looks justified. Ecuadorian source Área Deportiva reports the midfielder is “very close” to signing for Brentford and could soon complete his move to English football. For now, there is no information about a transfer fee or the terms Brentford may be offering Independiente del Valle.
What comes next?
The timing should help provide answers soon. MrOffsider says the Ecuadorian club will decide the terms of the sale this week. Brentford have therefore arrived at an important point in the negotiations. Saturday’s information had Birmingham City seemingly at the front of the queue, while Sunday’s reports suggest the Premier League club could now take Guagua instead. The next few days should make clear whether Brentford have genuinely jumped ahead in the race for the 18-year-old.
