Manchester United has successfully concluded an agreement with Brentford for the acquisition of Bryan Mbeumo. This agreement comes after over a month of intense negotiations between the two clubs, with the Red Devils finally settling on terms for the 25-year-old forward.
Previously, Manchester United had two offers for the Cameroonian attacker rejected, including one exceeding £60 million. However, Brentford remained steadfast in their valuation, insisting on a £65 million fee. This firm stance ultimately paid dividends, leading to the clubs` breakthrough agreement. The confirmed deal will see Manchester United pay an initial £65 million in four installments, with potential add-ons of up to £6 million in performance-related bonuses.
Mbeumo reportedly declined interest from clubs like Arsenal, Tottenham, and Newcastle—all offering Champions League football—to prioritize his desired move to Old Trafford. Both clubs are now working to finalize the transfer ahead of Manchester United`s pre-season tour to the United States, scheduled to begin next Tuesday.
Mbeumo is set to become the second key attacking reinforcement for Manchester United`s frontline this summer, joining Matheus Cunha, who recently arrived from Wolves for £62.5 million. Last season, Mbeumo was one of the Premier League`s standout attackers, netting 20 goals. Only Golden Boot winner Mohamed Salah (29), Alexander Isak (23), and Erling Haaland (22) surpassed his goal tally, with Chris Wood matching it. He also contributed significantly with seven assists for Brentford during the same period.
Mbeumo is anticipated to play as a right-sided attacking midfielder in Manchester United`s 3-4-3 formation, alongside Cunha on the left, supporting a central striker. Speculation remains regarding whether Rasmus Hojlund might be moved on to accommodate another frontman, following his less-than-stellar goalscoring season.
In other news, Manchester United is reportedly in discussions to sign 23-year-old Antwerp goalkeeper Senne Lammens, potentially as a replacement for Andre Onana. Meanwhile, Brentford`s attempt to secure Omari Hutchinson from Ipswich as Mbeumo`s replacement fell through, as they missed Tuesday`s 5 PM deadline to activate his £35 million release clause.
Manchester United`s pre-season schedule includes their first match against Leeds this weekend in Stockholm. Their Premier League campaign will commence with a home fixture against Arsenal at Old Trafford. A notable reunion is anticipated at the end of September when Mbeumo returns to his former club, Brentford, at their home ground.
