Brentford confirm signing of Guagua from Independiente del Valle

Brentford confirm signing of Guagua from Independiente del Valle Brentford B have announced the signing of 18-year-old Ecuador international Darwin Guagua from Independiente del Valle on a permanent deal, subject to international clearance. The versatile young midfielder has signed a five-year contract, with the club holding the option to extend for a further year. Subject to obtaining a work visa, Guagua will spend the 2026/27 season on loan at Primera Federación side Mérida AD to continue his development. The Spanish third-tier club is under the same ownership group as Brentford. Technical director Lee Dykes said: “We are delighted with the signing of Darwin. We are always looking for high-potential young players that we believe can develop into future Brentford players. "Darwin shows some positive early attributes that we like. As he is already playing senior football for club and country, it has been agreed that he will spend the season ahead out on loan to continue his development.” The teenager came through the Independiente del Valle academy, joining the Ecuadorian side in 2018 before making his senior debut off the bench against Cuenca in April 2025. Just three days later, Guagua was handed a start for Ecuador in a World Cup qualifier against Chile, making him the third-youngest player ever to debut for the senior national team. Subject to receiving a work visa, Guagua will link up with Mérida AD for the 2026/27 campaign as he continues his development in Spanish football.