The “Bees” in Roma: Why Brentford’s £13m Pursuit of Matteo Cancellieri is the Ultimate Statement of Ambition
In the volatile landscape of the Premier League, the January transfer window is usually a time for the desperate. It is a month defined by clubs at the bottom of the table overspending on “panic buys” to avoid relegation, or clubs at the top paying “Champions League premiums” to fix injury crises.
But as of January 13, 2026, Brentford FC is rewriting the script. Sitting in a sensational 5th place—above traditional giants like Manchester United and Chelsea—the West London club is operating from a position of unprecedented power. The news that Brentford has officially submitted a €15 million (£12.5m–£13m) bid for Lazio’s 23-year-old winger Matteo Cancellieri isn’t just a transfer rumor; it is a declaration that “The Bees” are ready to turn their European dream into a reality.
1. The Keith Andrews Effect: Continuity Over Chaos
To understand why Brentford is targeting a specific profile like Cancellieri, one must first look at the man in the dugout. When Thomas Frank departed for Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2025, many expected Brentford’s “Moneyball” model to finally falter. Instead, the promotion of internal set-piece coach Keith Andrews has proved to be a masterstroke of continuity.
Andrews has not only maintained the high-pressing, data-driven identity of the club but has evolved it. Under his leadership, Brentford has become the most dangerous counter-attacking team in the Premier League, ranking 1st for “fast-break goals” this season.
This tactical shift is exactly why the club’s recruitment team, led by Phil Giles and Lee Dykes, has identified Matteo Cancellieri as the “final piece.” Cancellieri is a winger built for the transition; his explosive pace and ability to carry the ball 40 yards in seconds are the exact traits Andrews needs to punish tired defenses in the second half of the season.
2. The Scouting Report: Who is Matteo Cancellieri?
Matteo Cancellieri is a name that has been simmering in the Italian press for years, but 2025/26 has been his true breakout. After productive loan spells at Empoli and Parma, the 23-year-old returned to the Stadio Olimpico this summer and immediately forced his way into Maurizio Sarri’s starting XI.
The “Bees” Eye-Witness Testimony:
Brentford’s interest isn’t based on an algorithm alone. Reports from Alfredo Pedullà confirm that Brentford sent high-level scouts to watch Cancellieri live in two specific “pressure-cooker” matches:
- vs. Fiorentina (Jan 7): Where he showcased his versatility, playing across all three positions in the final third.
- **vs. Hellas Verona (Jan 11): Where his work rate off the ball—a non-negotiable for Keith Andrews—convinced the Brentford hierarchy to authorize an immediate bid.
Key Stats (2025/26 Serie A):
- Goals: 3 (Including two “fast-break” strikes)
- Aerial Duels Won: Ranking in the top 3% for wingers in Europe (at 1.85m, he offers a physical presence Brentford loves).
- Defensive Contributions: Ranking in the top 5% for wingers, fitting perfectly into Brentford’s high-intensity defensive block.
3. The Roman Standoff: Negotiations and The “Isaksen” Alternative
The bid currently on the table is €15 million, including add-ons. However, in typical Italian fashion, Lazio president Claudio Lotito is playing hardball.
Lazio is reportedly holding out for €18 million–€20 million. Interestingly, Lazio tried to steer Brentford toward signing Gustav Isaksen instead—a player they are more willing to lose. Brentford’s response? A firm “No.” The Bees specifically want Cancellieri because his physical profile (1.85m / 6’1″) is superior for the aerial demands of the Premier League.
The Decision:
Sources close to the player suggest he is “torn.” Born and raised in Rome, leaving the Biancocelesti mid-season is a massive emotional hurdle. He has asked for 48 hours to reflect on the move. For Brentford, the next two days are the most critical in the club’s modern history.
4. Tactical Comparison: Why Cancellieri Beats the Current Options
Brentford already possesses talent on the wings, but Cancellieri offers a “left-footed on the right” dynamic that opens up the pitch
By signing Cancellieri, Keith Andrews can move Bryan Mbeumo into a more permanent central role or rotate him more effectively during the grueling February fixture list.
5. The Verdict: A Historic Gamble?
For Brentford, €15m-€20m is a significant investment, but it is one they can afford after the £60m sale of Ivan Toney last year. If they secure Cancellieri, they aren’t just buying a player; they are buying an insurance policy for their 5th-place standing.
In a season where the traditional “Big Six” are faltering, Brentford is smelling blood. Matteo Cancellieri might just be the man to lead the “Bees” into the Europa League—or even the Champions League—for the first time ever.