Brentford offer Stephenson new deal

[Getty Images] Brentford have offered a new contract to defender Josh Stephenson, promoting him into the first-team picture. The 20-year-old is expected to sign a new deal to reflect his readiness to play a part in Keith Andrews' squad, or potentially go out on loan. That pathway decision has yet to be made, but Stephenson is keen to continue his development in west London having bought into the project, and is open to extending his current terms - which run until 2028 - with Brentford holding an option for a further year. It is also a priority for Brentford to strengthen the academy, which recently gained category one status, and to highlight that progression from youth level to the first team is achievable. Stephenson joined the Bees in 2024 from Millwall's academy after turning down three contract offers. He has since become a mainstay in the B team and under-21s but has yet to make a senior appearance, either at his former club or at the Brentford Community Stadium. He has, however, been named on the bench as an unused substitute on multiple occasions.