
EPL Index
·28 June 2025
The Athletic reveal that Forward wants to join Manchester United

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·28 June 2025
Manchester United have taken a significant step in shaping their summer by targeting Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo. The 26-year-old Cameroon international, under contract until June 2026 with an option for a further year, has told both Brentford and Tottenham Hotspur of his desire to join United, should a move materialise.
“The Athletic revealed that he wants to join Manchester United, subject to the clubs reaching an agreement, and they contacted Brentford to discuss a switch.”
United’s opening gambit of £45 million plus £10 million in add-ons was swiftly rebuffed. A follow-up proposal of £55 million and £7.5 million in bonuses also failed to meet Brentford’s valuation. Negotiations remain ongoing, with Erik ten Hag’s side keen to secure the deal without forcing player sales to fund it.
Photo: IMAGO
Admiration from Tottenham intensified following Thomas Frank’s arrival in north London. However, Mbeumo made his stance clear to his former coach and current club.
“The Cameroon international notified Frank and Brentford that should he depart the Gtech Community Stadium now, it will be for Old Trafford.”
With this revelation, Spurs have distanced themselves from the pursuit. Reports of a formal bid from north London have been denied, with the club’s attention turning elsewhere unless United’s talks collapse.
Having recently offloaded Matheus Cunha for £62.5 million, Brentford appear emboldened. It is a figure they now seek to better for Mbeumo, who scored 9 Premier League goals in an injury-disrupted 2024-25 season.
United, while interested, are exercising caution.
“They plan to remain disciplined and avoid overpaying for players in the market.”
What makes Mbeumo intriguing is his tactical flexibility. A direct runner who thrives in transition, he fits the mould of a modern wide forward. His pressing ability and end product make him ideal for United’s high-tempo blueprint, though Brentford’s pricing could yet test Old Trafford’s resolve.
This move feels like a proper statement. Bryan Mbeumo choosing United over Spurs shows we still carry pull in the transfer market. Let’s be honest, he’s not just a stats merchant. His energy, versatility and maturity on the pitch would give us exactly what we’ve lacked — composure in transition and someone who can carry the ball with purpose.
The fact he told Thomas Frank and Brentford that if he leaves, it’s for Old Trafford only? That’s the kind of commitment we’ve missed in players. He could have gone to Spurs where his old manager is, but no — he’s looking up, not sideways.
Yes, £62 million is steep, but given what some bang-average players are going for these days, it’s market value. If we could snap him up for under that, even better. What matters is getting a deal done before someone else swoops in. No more dithering. Mbeumo could be the signing that helps bridge the gap between top four contenders and title hopefuls.
Let’s hope United move fast, stay firm, and give Erik ten Hag (or whoever’s making the calls now) the tools to build something real.