Bryan Mbeumo alternatives Man Utd could target ahead of final transfer decision

Manchester United are finding their pursuit of Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo more difficult that first thought and the Red Devils might have to start compiling a list of potential alternatives

Manchester United may have to start thinking outside of the box when it comes to their pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo. The Red Devils were determined to make the Brentford star their second major acquisition of the summer.

Following the signing of Matheus Cunha, they saw the Cameroonian as the perfect signing for their right-flank. The only issue is that Brentford have so far refused to play ball.

The Bees have rejected two bids from United already, the latest being worth around £55m plus £7.5m. That was an increase on the £45m plus up to £10m in add-ons offer that they had already lodged.

United boss Ruben Amorim was determined to have Mbeumo signed and sealed before pre-season but as it stands, that looks unlikely. Should he want to have a winger under his belt before that deadline, he could be forced to look elsewhere.

But what alternatives could United consider if they move on from Mbeumo? Mirror Football has five suggestions that could fit the bill.

While Mbeumo caught the eye for Brentford last season, the same could certainly be said of his teammate Wissa. The Congolese forward netted 20 goals for the Bees in all competitions last season.

And while he played more regularly as an out-and-out striker, Wissa has shown his versatility throughout his career. He has been stationed on either flank, as well as centrally.

Given their stance on Mbeumo, United might find Brentford to be tricky customers once more when it comes to their other star forward, but he should certainly be in their thinking.

Who do you think Man United should sign? Share your thoughts in the comments below

Another standout performer in the Premier League last term, Semenyo netted 11 goals for an eye-catching Bournemouth side, as well as notching six assists. And that understandably saw a number of clubs sit up and take notice, with United, Spurs and Newcastle all thought to be admirers.

Like Wissa, Semenyo’s versatility could see him rocket to the top of the list for United, with the Ghanaian equally adept on either flank. But Bournemouth’s stance might make a move slightly difficult.

Semenyo is under contract until 2029, while the Cherries want to bank around £70m should they cash in this summer.

While Wissa and Semenyo enjoyed stunning seasons, it could be argued that Crystal Palace star Eze had the best of the bunch. He scored 14 in all competitions - one of those strikes winning the Eagles the FA Cup - and notched a further 11 assists.

Of course, he is more of an attacking midfielder but he has the skillset to make a very effective winger for United. And Palace might have a decision to make very soon.

Eze has two years left on his contract at Selhurst Park, meaning they’re running out of time to potentially cash in on him. United look set to face competition from Arsenal should they pursue Eze.

A somewhat more realistic option now, Chelsea appear happy to sell Nkunku this summer following a difficult couple of campaigns at Stamford Bridge. He has scored just 17 goals over the past two seasons as a Chelsea player since a big-money move from RB Leipzig.

Again, his versatility might see him emerge as a sensible option given he can play across the frontline. United are long-term admirers of the forward so could renew their interest should the option arise.

Okay, we’re kind of cheating here but desperate times call for desperate measures. There’s no getting around it, Sancho has endured a rotten spell at Old Trafford.

And the Red Devils are desperate to move him on. But should they want to save their money for a out-and-out centre forward, it might not be the worst idea in the world reintegrating Sancho into the side.

There is talent there, as evidenced by his time with Borussia Dortmund - it’s just about getting it out of him.