Manchester United’s Pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo
Manchester United has intensified their pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo, submitting an enhanced bid of £65 million with a potential additional £5 million in performance-related bonuses to Brentford for the talented forward from Cameroon. Brentford is currently evaluating this proposal. According to earlier reports, Mbeumo has expressed to both Brentford and Tottenham Hotspur his desire to join Manchester United if he opts for a transfer this summer.
Previous Offers and Brentford’s Expectations
Previously, Manchester United had their initial offer of £45 million plus £10 million in add-ons rejected, followed by a second proposal worth £55 million plus £7.5 million that also did not meet Brentford’s expectations. The London club appears to be seeking a sum that surpasses the £62.5 million they received from Wolverhampton Wanderers for Matheus Cunha earlier this summer.
Ongoing Discussions and Player’s Intentions
Discussions are ongoing as Manchester United aims to strike a deal. Notably, The Athletic reported on June 2 that Mbeumo is keen on making the move to Old Trafford. The 25-year-old winger is approaching the last year of his contract with Brentford, although the club holds the option to extend his deal for an additional year.
With the recent shift of Thomas Frank from Brentford to Tottenham as their new head coach, Mbeumo’s stock has also risen among Spurs fans. However, he has explicitly communicated to both clubs that if he leaves Brentford, it will be to play for United.
Player Background and Performance
Mbeumo joined Brentford from the French club Troyes in 2019 and had a standout season, netting 20 goals and assisting eight times, helping the team secure a 10th-place finish in the Premier League.
Skill Set and Tactical Fit
Analysing Mbeumo’s skill set, he is recognized for his adaptability and efficiency in attack, qualities that would likely align well with Ruben Amorim’s tactical plans for the upcoming season at Manchester United. His development from a promising player in the Championship to a forward capable of challenging top-tier defenses has been noted, as he effectively performs various roles within Brentford’s formations, particularly excelling as a right winger and in a two-striker setup alongside Ivan Toney.
Mbeumo’s style is characterized by his direct approach, utilizing his left foot primarily while also demonstrating proficiency with his right. His ability to penetrate defenses and consistently position himself advantageously around the penalty area showcases his goal-scoring instincts. In the context of Amorim’s anticipated 3-4-3 formation, Mbeumo’s ideal role would likely be as a right-side attacking midfielder, where he could enhance Manchester United’s attacking strategy.
His progressive playmaking capabilities indicate he can effectively create diverse angles of attack, which would ultimately contribute to making United less predictable in their offensive tactics. As a proven player in the Premier League, Mbeumo could seamlessly integrate into the squad without the extended adjustment period often required for new signings, making him an attractive target for the club.
