Manchester United’s pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo is edging closer to completion, with the club optimistic that a deal can be finalized in time for the winger to join their pre-season tour of the United States. Despite budget constraints and Brentford’s tough negotiating stance, United believe they are within touching distance of landing their top attacking target.
The 25-year-old Mbeumo is coming off a sensational 20-goal Premier League campaign and has emerged as one of the standout performers outside the traditional top six. United’s interest is no secret, but negotiations have been complicated by Brentford’s insistence on receiving the bulk of the £65 million fee upfront—a structure United are currently hesitant to commit to given their tight summer budget.
That financial caution isn’t without context. United’s transfer strategy this window has been constrained by their inability to shift several high-earners. Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Alejandro Garnacho are all seen as potential exits, but none have yet brought in significant offers. Rashford, in particular, has reportedly made his preference clear for a move to Barcelona, though he’s training alone as he awaits further developments.
Antony, meanwhile, remains of interest to Real Betis. Talks have advanced over a permanent deal, though a loan arrangement hasn’t been ruled out. Sancho, whose time at Old Trafford has been tumultuous, continues to attract interest from Serie A, with both Juventus and Napoli keeping tabs on his situation.
Through all this, Mbeumo has made his position known. The Brentford attacker is fully committed to the move to Old Trafford and has already agreed personal terms in principle. That clarity has given United confidence that, despite a current gap in valuations, the finish line is in sight.
United’s goal is clear: they want Mbeumo signed and integrated into Erik ten Hag’s system before the squad departs for their three-game U.S. tour on July 22. The hope is that Mbeumo’s versatility, work rate, and proven Premier League output can immediately bolster an attack that has often lacked cutting edge and consistency in wide areas.
While the two clubs remain apart on the finer points of the deal structure, the broad outlines of the agreement are largely in place. Barring a breakdown over payment terms, Mbeumo could be wearing United red before the month is out—a key addition in a summer of change at Old Trafford.
United have already spent close to £65 million this window on Matheus Cunha and Diego Leon, but the push for Mbeumo signals that they aren’t done yet. The challenge now is finalizing the deal before logistical realities—such as the U.S. tour—become complicating factors.
The pieces are falling into place. If United can resolve the financial structure to Brentford’s satisfaction, they’ll have pulled off a signing that not only upgrades their attacking threat but also signals real intent ahead of the new campaign.
