Manchester United have made their move for Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo after the Cameroon international communicated that he wanted to join the Red Devils this summer
Brentford have rejected Manchester United's opening bid for Bryan Mbeumo and have told the Red Devils their proposal falls significantly short of their transfer valuation. Ruben Amorim's side have launched an assault for the 25-year-old attacker after receiving confirmation that he would favour a move to Old Trafford despite rival interest from Newcastle, Arsenal and Tottenham, respectively.
United's bid was worth an initial £45million plus £10m in add-ons, taking the total package to £55m and was firmly rebuffed.
However, Brentford are determined to get the best deal possible and have communicated to both United and the player's camp that they feel Mbeumo is worth the same kind of money that United recently paid Wolves for Matheus Cunha.
The Europa League runners-up have already concluded the signing of the Brazil international after triggering his £62.5m release clause.
Meanwhile, Mbeumo technically only has one year remaining on his current deal at the Gtech but the Bees do hold a 12-month extension option which they can trigger to protect the winger's value.
Thomas Frank's star man struck 20 goals in the Premier League last season and also registered seven top-flight assists. Only Mohamed Salah (47) and Alexander Isak (29) managed more goal contributions in the Premier League.
United want Mbeumo to spearhead their new-look attack with Cunha and they remain confident they will eventually get their man. Last week, Bees boss Frank made it clear that Brentford would command a premium price for their top goalscorer as they were not under any immediate pressure to sell him on the cheap.
Frank told Danish newspaper Tipsbladet : “It is clear that if he is to be sold, it must be for a nice, nice amount. It is a lot. Really a lot. Then it is clear that it is impossible to replace him one for one. It cannot be done.
"There is a reason why he costs x number of million pounds, and we do not have x number of million pounds to buy for."
The Dane also admitted that he was expecting widespread interest in Mbeumo so United's early bid will have come as no surprise in west London.
He added: “I would say that I would be surprised if a lot of big clubs don’t look at him. I would be surprised with what he has to offer.
"How many wingers score 20 goals for a mid-table club? And then with seven assists plus his work ethic. And his character. All these things mean that he has a lot, so he is a good player.”