Ornstein: United now ‘exploring’ deal for ‘unplayable’ star, there’s a ‘very good chance’ the move materialises

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·19 giugno 2025

Ornstein: United now ‘exploring’ deal for ‘unplayable’ star, there’s a ‘very good chance’ the move materialises

David Ornstein has provided Manchester United fans with some insight into the club’s transfer dealings behind the scenes.

Despite their early acquisition of Matheus Cunha on the opening day of the window, supporters have begun growing restless in anticipation of new signings after watching arch-rivals Liverpool and Manchester City strengthen their ranks with numerous stars.

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As well as that, it’s no secret that Ruben Amorim’s squad is in dire need of reinforcements following a lowest-ever Premier League finish on record (15th) for the 20-time champions.

United in talks to seal Bryan Mbeumo coup

Mbeumo seamlessly replaced ex-teammate Ivan Toney in 24/25. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

The transfer expert confirmed on Wednesday evening that United remain locked in negotiations to try and hash out a deal for Bryan Mbeumo, having had their opening proposal of £45 million plus £10m in add-ons rebuffed by Brentford last week.

It’s thought the two teams are struggling to reach an agreement over a fee due to the Bees holding out for a substantial amount — reportedly one akin to what United forked out for Cunha, which was £62.5m, though only some was paid upfront.

Mbeumo, 25, enjoyed a higher goalscoring campaign than the Reds’ new addition, scoring 20 to Cunha’s 15 and assisting two more goals (eight compared to six), so it’s no wonder the West London outfit are adamant about getting their money’s worth from their talisman’s exit.

What Ornstein is hearing about Mbeumo to United

What bodes in INEOS’ favour is that the Cameroonian international has given priority to an Old Trafford move despite garnering interest from Arsenal, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur, the latter of which would now see him reunite with newly-appointed manager Thomas Frank, who hailed Mbeumo as ‘unplayable’ last season.

“Manchester United are exploring doing the Bryan Mbeumo deal and he wants to join them,” said Ornstein on The Athletic’s midweek podcast release. “There’s a very good chance that deal happens, but they’re not there yet.”

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