Manchester United have seen their latest bid for Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo rejected, as the West London club stand firm on their valuation of the in-demand forward.
United’s improved offer, reportedly worth up to £62.5 million – consisting of £55 million upfront and £7.5 million in add-ons – was turned down by Brentford, who are understood to be holding out for a fee similar to what Wolves received for Matheus Cunha earlier this summer.
Cunha’s recent move to Old Trafford, also for £62.5 million, has seemingly set a benchmark in the market. Sources close to the negotiations suggest Brentford want that amount paid up front, not through structured add-ons, if they are to part ways with one of their most influential players.
Mbeumo, 25, is coming off the back of a career-best season, netting 20 goals and providing nine assists across all competitions. His consistent performances have made him a pivotal figure in Brentford’s attack and a fan favourite at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Having joined the Bees from French side Troyes in 2019 while the club was still in the Championship, Mbeumo has grown into a key asset. His contributions were instrumental in Brentford’s promotion to the Premier League in 2021, and he has since accumulated 70 goals in 242 appearances – impressive numbers that underline his value.
United, under new leadership, are aggressively reshaping their squad with the aim of restoring their dominance in English football. The signing of Cunha from Wolves marked their first major move this summer, and the club is eager to add more attacking options ahead of the new campaign. However, Brentford’s firm stance and the growing interest in Mbeumo from other top sides have complicated United’s pursuit.
Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly monitoring the situation closely. Newly appointed manager Thomas Frank, who coached Mbeumo at Brentford, is keen on a reunion. Spurs’ interest could add pressure on United to move quickly and decisively, or risk losing out on their target.
Additionally, several unnamed Champions League clubs are believed to be weighing up their own offers, which could further drive up the player’s market value.
One potential complication for any club signing Mbeumo this summer is his likely absence during the Africa Cup of Nations. Representing Cameroon, the winger is expected to miss up to four weeks of the 2025–26 season. The tournament, hosted in Morocco, begins in late December, with Cameroon facing Gabon in their opening group game on the 24th.
While this could deter some suitors, United appear undeterred by the short-term unavailability. Managerial and recruitment staff are convinced that Mbeumo’s long-term value outweighs the temporary loss.
Brentford, meanwhile, are in a strong negotiating position. Mbeumo still has one year left on his current deal, and despite growing interest, the club is not under pressure to sell unless their valuation is met. The player has not publicly agitated for a move, although the chance to play for a Champions League side may influence his stance if offers continue to come in.
As the summer window progresses, Manchester United will need to decide whether to return with an even more aggressive offer or shift their attention elsewhere. For now, Brentford remain firm: Mbeumo is not for sale – at least not for anything less than top dollar.
