Manchester United’s pursuit of Brentford’s star forward Bryan Mbeumo hit a snag as their improved £62.5 million bid was rejected, with the Bees holding firm for a valuation exceeding £65 million, according to sources from Sky Sports and ESPN.
The 25-year-old Cameroon international, whose contract runs until June 2026 with an option to extend, has expressed a strong desire to join Manchester United, fuelling ongoing transfer negotiations.
Despite interest from Tottenham Hotspur and other Champions League clubs, Mbeumo’s preference for Old Trafford has intensified the saga, sparking debates over a perceived ‘United tax’—where clubs inflate prices for the Red Devils.
As discussions continue, the transfer window remains abuzz with speculation about the versatile forward’s future.
Mbeumo’s stellar 2024/25 Premier League season, where he scored 20 goals and provided eight assists in 38 appearances, has made him a prime target for United’s new head coach, Rúben Amorim.
His breakout campaign, which saw him rank fourth in Premier League goal-scoring behind only Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, and Erling Haaland, contributed 22 points to Brentford’s top-half finish, per Sky Sports Power Rankings.
Mbeumo’s versatility, capable of playing as a right winger, No. 10, or striker in Amorim’s 3-4-3 system, makes him a perfect fit for United’s attacking rebuild, especially after their lacklustre 44 league goals last season, the second-lowest among non-relegated teams.
His 27 goal contributions, including decisive goals and assists, accounted for 40% of Brentford’s points, underscoring his value.
Brentford, who signed Mbeumo from Troyes for £5.8 million in 2019, is leveraging his one-year contract with an optional 12-month extension to demand a premium.
The Bees rejected United’s initial £55 million offer (£45 million plus £10 million in add-ons) earlier in June, followed by the £62.5 million bid, which matched the fee United paid for Wolves’ Matheus Cunha.
Sources indicate Brentford are seeking at least £65 million, with some reports, like one from Sports Illustrated, suggesting a £70 million valuation, citing Mbeumo’s youth and productivity compared to Cunha.
Fans reflect frustration among United fans, with @Jones88bones
question Brentford’s “£70m hustle” for a player valued lower by non-English clubs.
Mbeumo’s desire to join Manchester United, confirmed by The Athletic and David Ornstein, has tilted negotiations in United’s favour, despite Tottenham’s interest under their new manager, Thomas Frank, who previously coached Mbeumo at Brentford.
The Cameroon international, with 18 caps and four goals, has reportedly agreed to personal terms for a five-year deal worth approximately £180,000 per week.
However, Brentford’s firm stance and the so-called ‘United tax’—a term describing inflated fees for United due to their financial clout—complicate talks.
United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, insists the club will not be “held to ransom,” with negotiations focusing on add-ons to bridge the gap.
The transfer saga, trending on social media with fans stating, “Brentford and Manchester United are trying to find a solution,” has captivated loyal fans and analysts.
United’s recent £62.5 million signing of Cunha signals their intent to overhaul their attack, but missing out on Champions League football after a 15th-place finish adds urgency to secure Mbeumo before pre-season begins on July 7.
Meanwhile, Kenya’s Gen Z protests against police brutality and corruption, though unrelated, highlight a global context of unrest, contrasting with football’s unifying appeal.
As talks persist, Mbeumo’s potential move to Old Trafford remains a focal point, with United determined to land their priority target.
