Man Utd face Bryan Mbeumo transfer fight as Thomas Frank makes Tottenham demand
Thomas Frank Urges Spurs to Challenge Manchester United for £60M Bryan Mbeumo in Potential Statement Signing
Incoming Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank has reportedly informed the club’s hierarchy of his desire to bring Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo with him to north London this summer. The Danish tactician, expected to be officially announced as Ange Postecoglou’s successor in the coming days, has wasted no time identifying the in-demand forward as a priority target.
Frank believes that Mbeumo, who enjoyed a sensational season with the Bees, could be the kind of marquee signing that signals Tottenham’s intent to compete at the highest level — and one that could send a powerful message to their rivals, particularly Manchester United. Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is said to be open to the idea, viewing the £60 million-rated attacker as a statement acquisition as the club prepares for a return to Champions League football.
Manchester United currently lead the race for Mbeumo’s signature and have already tabled two formal bids. However, Frank’s presence at Spurs and the lure of Champions League football could sway the 25-year-old, who now finds himself at a career crossroads. The choice between United and Spurs could come down to a battle between head and heart — a decision based on prestige and money versus loyalty and familiarity.
The Cameroon international was one of the standout performers in the Premier League last season. Despite Brentford’s modest resources, Mbeumo lit up the top flight with 20 goals, finishing behind only Mohamed Salah, Erling Haaland, and Alexander Isak in the scoring charts. He also contributed seven assists, underlining his status as one of the most complete wide forwards in the division.
Newcastle United also tried to snap up Mbeumo in the January transfer window, but Brentford swiftly rejected their approach. Since then, interest has only intensified. Manchester United have held prolonged discussions with Mbeumo’s representatives and have reportedly offered a lucrative contract worth £150,000 per week, potentially rising to £200,000 with bonuses.
While Spurs’ proposed salary package is understood to be slightly lower — starting at around £130,000 per week — the club can offer something United cannot: Champions League football next season. That, combined with the opportunity to reunite with Thomas Frank, the coach who helped transform Mbeumo into a top-tier Premier League talent, could prove decisive.
Frank has been vocal in recent weeks about Mbeumo’s value, hinting that only an extraordinary bid would convince Brentford to sell their prized asset. Speaking earlier this month, he said: “It’s obvious that if Bryan is going to be sold, it has to be for a very substantial amount. A lot. A really big fee. It’s virtually impossible to replace him like-for-like. That’s why he’s valued at what he is — and we simply don’t have that kind of money to buy a similar player.”
He continued, “I would honestly be shocked if major clubs aren’t looking at him. What he brings to the pitch is exceptional. How many wide players score 20 goals in a season for a mid-table team? Then add his seven assists, his work rate, and his character — it’s a rare combination. He’s a top-quality player.”
Mbeumo’s breakout campaign also helped silence doubts over Brentford’s ability to cope following the departure of star striker Ivan Toney, who left for the Saudi Pro League in a dramatic deadline day deal last August. Mbeumo stepped into the spotlight with confidence, becoming the heartbeat of Brentford’s attack and ensuring the club remained competitive throughout the season.
With just one year remaining on his current contract — though Brentford do hold an option to extend it by an additional year — this summer represents a critical window for the Bees to cash in. Unless a new deal is agreed, the club may be forced to sell or risk losing one of their most valuable assets for a reduced fee down the line.
Now, the ball is in Mbeumo’s court. Will he opt for the rich legacy and financial muscle of Manchester United, or will he be tempted by the familiarity of working under Frank again, combined with the excitement of Champions League nights at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium?
One thing is certain: whoever lands Mbeumo this summer will be getting a player in his prime, with proven Premier League pedigree and the hunger to make an even bigger impact at the top level.