Manchester United are stepping up their efforts to land Bryan Mbeumo, and goalkeeper Andre Onana is playing a central role in trying to persuade the Brentford forward to choose Old Trafford over north London. With Tottenham also pushing hard for his signature, the race is heating up for the Cameroon international.
United have already seen an opening £45 million bid – plus £10 million in add-ons – rejected by Brentford, who are reportedly holding out for a fee closer to £70 million. The Bees are referencing Wolves’ recent deal for Matheus Cunha as a benchmark in ongoing negotiations. Mbeumo has only 12 months left on his contract, but Brentford are under no pressure to sell on the cheap.
Despite interest from Spurs and a potential reunion with former boss Thomas Frank, Mbeumo is understood to favour a move to Manchester. Frank, now managing Tottenham, has urged his new club to push hard for the transfer, but it might not be enough to sway the player. The forward has expressed admiration for Frank, crediting him for much of his development as both a person and a footballer, but his focus appears to be shifting north.
Onana, who shares national team duties with Mbeumo, is reportedly leveraging their close bond to convince him that Manchester United is the ideal next step. His influence could be decisive, especially with the goalkeeper expected to remain at the club despite a turbulent second season.
Last season was Mbeumo’s most impressive yet. With Ivan Toney’s departure to Saudi Arabia, the 25-year-old stepped up for Brentford, scoring 20 goals and assisting seven more as the club secured a solid tenth-place finish. Though they missed out on European football, Mbeumo believes the campaign was a success and sees his stock rising accordingly.
Amid the ongoing speculation, Mbeumo has remained composed. He acknowledged the transfer rumours, calling them a normal part of a footballer’s life and something he must simply accept. Still, he hasn’t shut the door on a Spurs reunion, instead wishing Frank success in his new role and advising Tottenham fans to be patient as the manager adapts to a new environment.
As the transfer window unfolds, United remain determined to improve their attack, and with Onana’s involvement and Mbeumo’s preference becoming clear, the Red Devils might just have the upper hand in this Premier League tug-of-war.