Tottenham’s recently launched pursuit of Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo may throw a spanner in the works.
Manchester United have started the summer transfer window with one signing after announcing Matheus Cunha’s arrival from Wolves.
With one forward addition and more to follow, Ruben Amorim has identified United’s lack of goals as the team’s biggest problem before preparations begin for the 2025/26 campaign.
United are trying to bounce back from a 15th-place finish in the Premier League and they won’t be competing in any European competition following a 1-0 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final.
Ineos are also trying to sell players to generate funds for more signings. That way, they can bolster Amorim’s squad and give the head coach every chance next season.
Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo has attracted several clubs, including United, but competition for his signature has heated up in the past 24 hours.
United are expected to make a second bid for Mbeumo next week.
Talks have been ongoing since Brentford rejected United’s first offer for the Cameroon international.
More United News
However, Tottenham have begun negotiations with Brentford over a deal for Mbeumo, shortly after announcing Thomas Frank as their new manager.
Frank replaces Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham and reports suggest the former Brentford manager wants to form a reunion with Mbeumo.
After a conversation with Graeme Bailey, United In Focus learned that Tottenham are ready to compete with United for Mbeumo’s signature.
However, those who communicate in football circles no longer believe Mbeumo is certain to move to Old Trafford this summer.
The prospect of staying in London may appeal to Mbeumo.
“Tottenham are in touch with Mbeumo’s camp and whilst a bid is being denied, there is clearly something happening – I was told earlier this week that Spurs were on to watch as they were waiting in the wings, safe to say they have taken to the stage now and are ready to compete with United,” Bailey said.
“United are not going to get into whether they are worried, but I can say that within football a number of people no longer believe he is certain to move to Old Trafford.
“United had clearly seen off the likes of Newcastle previously, but this Spurs interest with the chance of staying in London is different and certainly a genuine option for him now.”
Mbeumo shares tribute to Frank
Mbeumo blossomed under Frank at Brentford and his interest may turn the forward’s head, amid interest from United.
The 25-year-old shared a tribute to Frank on Instagram, thanking his former manager for the work he did at Brentford.
It remains to be seen if Mbeumo and Frank will work together again, although Tottenham are doing what they can to make it happen.
United don’t want to deal with the embarrassment of losing out on a top target to Tottenham, a month after losing the Europa League final to the same club.