Manchester United are believed to be closing in on the signature of Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, with the Red Devils reportedly being the 25-year-old's preference should he make a move this summer
Manchester United have set their sights on Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo, with Rio Ferdinand applauding the club for adhering to his "non-negotiable" demand of signing hard-working players. Mbeumo is said to favour a move to Old Trafford this summer over any other Premier League side.
Negotiations between United and Brentford are expected to kick off soon, with Mbeumo's impressive tally of 20 goals and seven assists in 38 league matches this season putting his value at about £60million.
United legend Ferdinand has expressed his backing for the potential acquisition, praising Mbeumo's consistent impact and athleticism, while also highlighting that the club have listened to his own transfer demands as they look to build on a dismal campaign.
"What a season he's had. Not only has he been ever-present – he's always there consistently – the guy's impacting games. Big moments," said Ferdinand on his Rio Presents podcast.
"He bangs [goals in] left foot, right foot. He comes in from the right, plays on the left, plays up front as a nine or even as a false nine. And again, it's not just about wanting talent.
"These guys who operate at this level all have talent. But one of the things that is non-negotiable for me is athleticism. The ability to go man-to-man. The ability to beat a player.
"The ability to take the team from one end of the pitch to the other. He brings that, so that's another added spice that I thought was a non-negotiable and they've listened to me."
According to The Athletic, Mbeumo's preference is Old Trafford this window, with Newcastle, Arsenal and Tottenham all interested parties. The winger's keen eye for finding the net and his pace along the frontline are much needed at United, and were instrumental in Brentford securing their 10th place standing this season.
The prospect of adding him to United's squad would notably enhance Amorim's options after the Reds missed out on securing Liam Delap after he chose Chelsea as his future club with his imminent £30m transfer from Ipswich on the horizon.
United aren't wasting any time when it comes to summer signings, though, already sealing a deal for Wolves' Matheus Cunha. With a £62.5m buy-out clause in his previous contract, they didn't hesitate to meet the figure.
In the meantime, Bruno Fernandes has turned down an offer from the Saudi Pro League, which suggests he’ll be playing for United again next season.
Between them, Mbeumo and Cunha have scored a striking total of 35 league goals this season; the previous term, they netted 21. Their proven ability is clear as day, especially contrasted with United's less successful strike force.
Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee failed to hit those heights prior to joining United with a whopping combined cost nearing £110m during the summers of 2023 and 2024.