Report: Man Utd Join Arsenal in Summer Battle for Brentford Star | OneFootball

Manchester United and Arsenal Set to Battle for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo

Manchester United are poised to rival Arsenal in the race to sign Brentford’s prolific forward Bryan Mbeumo this summer. According to The Mirror, both Premier League giants are monitoring the 25-year-old, whose form has been instrumental in Brentford’s impressive campaign.

A Standout Season for Mbeumo

Mbeumo has been nothing short of sensational this season, stepping up in the absence of Ivan Toney. With 13 goals in 20 Premier League appearances, he has already surpassed his previous best of nine goals in a single season. Only Erling Haaland and Mo Salah have scored more in the current campaign, underscoring Mbeumo’s emergence as one of the league’s standout performers.

Signed from Troyes in 2019 for a club-record £5.9 million, Mbeumo has developed into a versatile attacker capable of excelling across the front line. His work rate, coupled with his ability to deliver in high-pressure moments, has caught the attention of Manchester United’s manager Ruben Amorim, who reportedly values his adaptability and commitment.

Why Mbeumo Fits for United and Arsenal

Manchester United’s interest in Mbeumo comes amid a restructuring phase under Amorim, with the club expected to fund transfers through player sales. Mbeumo’s versatility makes him an attractive target for a United side aiming to rebuild its attacking options. Arsenal, meanwhile, view Mbeumo as a potential addition to their dynamic forward line, adding depth and competition to a squad with ambitions of challenging for the Premier League title.

Brentford boss Thomas Frank, however, has made it clear that Mbeumo is not for sale in January. Speaking earlier this month, he said, “In January? I would say good luck. We love Bryan. He loves playing here. He has had a fantastic season, so nothing will happen.”

Photo: IMAGO

A Move Hinges on Summer Sales

While Brentford’s stance on keeping Mbeumo is firm for now, the summer transfer window could provide opportunities for a move. United are reportedly prepared to double Mbeumo’s weekly salary of £50,000, though any deal would require significant outgoings at Old Trafford as part of an anticipated fire sale.

Mbeumo’s contract runs until June 2026, giving Brentford leverage in negotiations. Yet the player’s ambition to play for “the biggest clubs” and in “the biggest competitions”, as he told L’Equipe last year, ensures that interest in him will remain high.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

The potential signing of Bryan Mbeumo represents an intriguing prospect. His performances for Brentford suggest he could bring much-needed energy and creativity to United’s attack. However, scepticism lingers over whether Mbeumo’s success at Brentford can translate to a club with United’s demands.

Mbeumo’s versatility is undoubtedly a strength, but United supporters may question whether the club’s focus should be on proven, world-class talent rather than players with potential. At £40 million, Mbeumo’s price tag is reasonable in today’s market, yet fans might argue that resources would be better spent on addressing other critical areas, such as midfield depth or defensive stability.

Additionally, United’s reliance on sales to fund transfers raises concerns about the club’s financial planning. A fire sale might create space for new arrivals, but it could also disrupt squad cohesion and limit flexibility in negotiations.

Ultimately, while Mbeumo’s signing would excite fans seeking fresh talent, it’s imperative that the club balances ambition with pragmatism. For now, the focus remains on whether United can emerge victorious in the battle against Arsenal for one of the Premier League’s most in-form forwards.