Mbeumo ‘accepts’ transfer speculation and delivers Frank verdict
Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo has broken his silence on the ongoing transfer speculation linking him with a big-money move away from the West London club. The Cameroonian forward has attracted strong interest from two Premier League giants – Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur – with his future likely to be one of the hot topics of the summer transfer window.
In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports reporter Craig Slater, Mbeumo acknowledged the swirling rumours about his future but insisted he’s staying grounded amid the uncertainty. “It’s all a bit new to me,” he admitted. “But I think this is the life of a professional footballer, and you have to accept it. It’s part of the game.”
Tottenham Talks Spark Interest After Frank Appointment
Tottenham Hotspur have already initiated early discussions with Brentford over a potential deal for Mbeumo, and their chances of landing the 24-year-old have increased following the recent appointment of Thomas Frank as the club’s new head coach. Frank, who spent seven successful years at Brentford, played a pivotal role in Mbeumo’s development both on and off the pitch.
Sources close to the situation say Mbeumo is “intrigued” by the idea of a move to North London, especially under a familiar manager who has shown unwavering faith in him. However, Tottenham are not the only club in pursuit.
Manchester United are also firmly in the picture. The Red Devils made a formal offer for Mbeumo before Tottenham began serious negotiations with Frank. The proposed deal included £45 million guaranteed, along with a potential £10 million in performance-based bonuses. While Brentford rejected that opening bid, sources close to the player say he still leans slightly toward a move to Old Trafford.
United are expected to return with an improved offer as Erik ten Hag looks to bolster his attack following an inconsistent 2024/25 campaign. With Mbeumo’s versatility to play across the front three and his proven Premier League pedigree, he is seen as an ideal target to inject pace, goals, and energy into United’s frontline.
Brentford Open to Sale – for the Right Price
Although Brentford would prefer to keep Mbeumo, there is a growing acceptance within the club that he may have earned a move to a bigger club. Having impressed consistently over the past few seasons and coming off his best campaign yet, the Bees are willing to do business if their valuation – understood to be in excess of £60 million – is met.
Mbeumo’s 2024/25 season was a standout. He netted 20 Premier League goals and played a vital role in helping Brentford secure a 10th-place finish – narrowly missing out on European qualification. “It’s definitely been my best season so far in the Premier League,” he reflected. “We played some really good football. I think we were unlucky not to secure a European spot, but overall, it’s been a fantastic season for the team.”
High Praise for Thomas Frank
Mbeumo reserved special praise for Thomas Frank, whose departure to Spurs marks the end of an era at Brentford. “He’s done so much for me,” Mbeumo said fondly. “From the moment I arrived, he trusted me. He helped me grow not just as a player but as a person too.”
He continued: “He knows football inside out. He’s very smart, he has a clear vision for how he wants to play, and he’s brilliant at communicating with people and creating a strong team spirit. That’s why Brentford have been able to perform so well over the years.”
Mbeumo believes Frank will succeed at Tottenham, even with the heightened expectations and European commitments. “It might take a bit of time to adapt, especially with Champions League football and all the pressure that comes with a club like Spurs, but I’m sure he’ll do well.”
Brentford Look to Replace Frank Internally
With Frank gone, Brentford are now searching for his successor, and one name that has emerged as a strong candidate is set-piece coach Keith Andrews. Andrews, who joined Frank’s staff last year, is highly respected within the club and is seen as someone who could continue Brentford’s philosophy and tactical structure.
This would mirror the club’s previous approach, as Frank himself was promoted internally after serving as assistant to former head coach Dean Smith. “It’s big shoes to fill,” Mbeumo said when asked about the managerial change. “Seven years as head coach is a long time, so of course there’s going to be change. But we’ll see what happens.”
Brentford are considering several names for the head coach position, but no final decision has been made yet.
Looking Ahead
As the summer transfer window gathers momentum, the future of Bryan Mbeumo promises to be one of the defining sagas. With Manchester United preparing a fresh bid and Tottenham positioning themselves strategically under their new manager, Brentford’s star man may well be on the move – but only for the right offer.
Meanwhile, Sky Sports viewers can look forward to even more Premier League action next season. The broadcaster has expanded its coverage and will now show at least 215 top-flight games live, meaning that fans will be able to follow stories like Mbeumo’s journey more closely than ever – with 80% of televised matches available exclusively on Sky.