Forward had offer from Brentford – January deal never happened because of work permit points

Brentford failed in their efforts in signing Fortuna Düsseldorf’s Dawid Kownacki in the winter market.

That’s according to Meczyki.pl journalist Tomasz Włodarczyk, who states the Bees made an offer to the German club but were unable to carry out the deal due to administrative issues.

The striker has had a good run with the second division German club this season, scoring nine goals and registering seven assists from 20 matches in all competitions.

His deal runs down in June and Fortuna Düsseldorf had earlier announced the 25-year-old has decided against signing an extension. Brentford tried to take advantage of the Pole’s situation and made an offer in January.

Thomas Frank’s side were unsuccessful in their attempt to secure Kownacki’s services because he was not eligible to obtain a work permit to play in the UK. That’s at least what Włodarczyk claims.

“In recent days, Dawid Kownacki has received several proposals to change the club. Amounts of approx. €2.5m. Borussia Mönchengladbach, Eintracht Frankfurt wanted him and – interestingly – he also had an offer from the Premier League,” the journalist said.

“Brentford asked about him. However, the GBE calculator [UK transfer regulations on work permits] calculated him 8 points, and to play in the Premier League you need 15. Then he would have to go somewhere on loan.”

Brentford’s failure to sign Kownacki could benefit Fortuna Düsseldorf in their efforts to achieve promotion to the Bundesliga. They are currently sixth in the table, three points behind fourth place 1.FCK and 10 points behind leaders Darmstadt.