Romaine Sawyers set to join Dean Smith at Brentford

The 24-year-old confirmed on Tuesday he won't be extending his stay with the Saddlers despite being offered a new and improved three-year-deal.

Sawyers, who scored seven goals last season, has instead rejected that offer in favour of a move to West London where he will team up with Smith and former Walsall assistant boss Richard O'Kelly.

It is understood the creative midfielder will officially be unveiled as a Bees player on July 1 – with his contract at the Banks's Stadium set to expire on June 30.

Sawyers has attracted interest from a number of Championship clubs following a string of eye-catching displays last season.

Wigan, who went on to win League One, made a move for him during the January transfer window and reignited their interest this summer.

Birmingham also expressed an interest in taking the St Kitts and Nevis international to St Andrew's.

But it is believed Sawyers – who was named in the League One team of the year – has always had his heart set on teaming up again with Smith at Griffin Park.

The two have had a close relationship ever since Smith signed him on loan for Walsall from Albion in 2013.

Speaking after Walsall's game against Chelsea in the League Cup last season, Smith praised Sawyer's ability while also revealing they attended the same school as youngsters.

"Against Chelsea he wouldn't have looked out of place playing in their team, that is as big a compliment as I can give him," the boss said.

"He's a clever kid – he must be because he went to the same school as me!

"But in all seriousness, he is very bright and he is taking on board what's been said to him."