Defender signs Development Squad deal with Brentford

Brentford have today completed the signing of 19-year-old defender Emmanuel Onariase from West Ham United on an 18-month Development squad contract for an undisclosed fee. Emmanuel, more commonly known as Manny, joined The Hammers as a 12-year-old and has risen through the ranks at the East London club.

The tall, athletic central defender made his Youth Team debut as a 16 year-old in 2012 and went on to become a regular in the Under-18s throughout his scholarship. Manny was included in West Ham’s matchday squad for their Barclays Premier League match away at Arsenal in March 2015, shortly before signing his first professional contract with the club.

Robert Rowan, Head of Football Operations at Brentford FC, said: "Emmanuel has been on our radar since the summer and he recently impressed the Development Squad staff during his trial period with the club last week. What particularly stood out was his ability and composure on the ball, leadership skills and his physical condition.

“We were very happy to finalise the contract this afternoon and welcome Emmanuel to Brentford FC. Like Nathan, whom we signed last week, Emmanuel needs to continue working hard if he wants to get to the next level and make his debut for the First Team."