Manchester United are pressing ahead in their pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo, and all indications suggest Brentford are beginning to brace for life without the winger.
Following the successful acquisition of Matheus Cunha, United swiftly shifted their focus to Mbeumo. Negotiations have been ongoing for over a month, with Brentford rejecting two offers so far. Despite that, the Red Devils remain optimistic that they can get a deal done.
According to Fabrizio Romano, United are now putting the finishing touches on a third bid, with discussions ongoing over key elements like add-ons.
Manager Ruben Amorim is eager to have Mbeumo signed this week, and recent developments suggest that wish may be fulfilled soon.
A telltale sign that a club is ready to part ways with a key player is when they begin actively searching for a high-calibre replacement — and that’s exactly what Brentford appear to be doing.
Romano reports that Brentford have turned their attention to Ipswich Town forward Omari Hutchinson, identifying him as a potential successor to Mbeumo.
Hutchinson, who joined Ipswich from Chelsea for £20 million in 2024, enjoyed an impressive first season under manager Kieran McKenna, catching Brentford’s eye in the process.
While Manchester United fans are enthusiastic about the prospect of Mbeumo joining the squad, the drawn-out nature of the negotiations has tested their patience.
INEOS, now overseeing transfer strategy at Old Trafford, are determined to avoid overpaying — a key reason behind the lengthy talks. However, all signs point to an agreement being close.
United are set to begin their pre-season tour of the United States next week, following a friendly against Leeds United on Saturday, July 19.
Amorim hopes Mbeumo will be part of the squad for the US tour, with a slim chance he could even feature against Leeds.
Landing Mbeumo would allow United to shift focus to strengthening other areas, particularly by bringing in a dynamic midfielder and a new centre-forward.
