Bryan Mbeumo ‘made drastic transfer U-turn’ after Man Utd failed to meet criteria
Manchester United have surged to the front of the pack in the pursuit of Brentford attacker Bryan Mbeumo, with the 25-year-old reportedly identifying Old Trafford as his preferred destination ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. The Red Devils now appear to be in pole position to land the highly sought-after forward, beating out stiff competition from several Premier League rivals.
Arsenal, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur were all believed to be serious contenders for Mbeumo’s signature, each offering the lure of Champions League football next season. Arsenal secured a second-place finish in the Premier League, while Newcastle managed a fifth-place spot, both gaining direct qualification to Europe’s premier club competition. Tottenham, despite a poor domestic campaign that saw them finish in 17th, shocked the continent by winning the Europa League final 1-0 against Ruben Amorim’s former club, thereby sealing their own unexpected Champions League berth.
In stark contrast, Manchester United ended the season in a dismal 15th place, marking a new low in their Premier League history for the second year running. Their inability to claim a domestic or European trophy means they will be completely absent from continental competitions next season—a bitter pill for supporters to swallow.
Despite this, there is renewed optimism around Old Trafford. The club is determined to reverse its recent decline and has wasted no time in making bold moves in the transfer market. On the very first day of the summer transfer window, United made headlines by securing the signature of Wolves forward Matheus Cunha in a blockbuster £62.5 million deal. That signing sent a clear message of intent to both fans and rivals: Manchester United are serious about their rebuild.
Shortly after Cunha’s arrival was confirmed, fresh reports began to circulate suggesting that Mbeumo was keen to follow suit and join the Red Devils. His apparent desire to link up with Amorim’s revolution in Manchester has reportedly left Arsenal, Newcastle, and Spurs disappointed, particularly as Mbeumo had previously expressed a preference for Champions League football—something United currently cannot offer.
Just a week prior, speculation pointed toward Newcastle being in the driver’s seat for Mbeumo’s signature, given their European qualification and long-term project under Eddie Howe. According to Chronicle Live, the Cameroon international was thought to be targeting a club involved in European competitions, having grown frustrated with the lack of continental exposure during his time at Brentford.
That narrative, however, appears to have shifted dramatically. Mbeumo is now believed to be sold on the ambitious rebuild taking place at Old Trafford under new manager Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese tactician, fresh off guiding Sporting CP to domestic success, is tasked with restoring Manchester United to their former glory—and adding a dynamic forward like Mbeumo is seen as a crucial part of that project.
While personal terms with the player may not be a major hurdle, Manchester United must still strike a deal with Brentford, who are expected to demand a premium fee for one of their star players. The Bees are under no pressure to sell cheaply and will likely hold firm in negotiations, aware of the growing interest in their prized forward.
Nevertheless, there is growing belief that United can complete the deal before the start of pre-season. The club reportedly allocated a budget for two attacking signings ahead of the window’s opening, and with Cunha already secured, Mbeumo is now the clear priority.
Initially, Liam Delap was identified as the club’s primary striker target. However, the Ipswich Town forward surprised many by opting to join Chelsea, despite strong links to a return to Manchester. That setback has seemingly opened the door for Mbeumo to take center stage in Amorim’s attacking plans.
Mbeumo, known for his pace, creativity, and work rate, would bring versatility and experience to United’s frontline—traits that have often been lacking in recent seasons. His potential partnership with Cunha could breathe new life into a United side desperate for consistency and firepower.
As negotiations with Brentford continue, Manchester United fans will be hoping that the club can strike a deal swiftly. The signing of Mbeumo would not only strengthen the squad significantly but also serve as a major statement of intent—proving that, even without European football, the allure of Old Trafford and the promise of a brighter future remain powerful draws.