Manchester United have reached an agreement with Brentford to sign Bryan Mbeumo in a deal worth £65 million, potentially rising to £70m with add-ons. The move makes Mbeumo the most expensive player sold in Brentford’s history and continues a summer of bold spending under new manager Ruben Amorim.
The Cameroon international is expected to undergo his medical in the coming days ahead of United’s pre-season tour of the United States, which begins Tuesday. The 25-year-old will become United’s third signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha and Spanish left-back Diego Leon.
United had previously seen offers of £55m and £62.5m rejected by the Bees, but their persistence paid off as Brentford accepted a third bid of £65m, with a further £5m in performance-based bonuses.
Mbeumo joined Brentford from Troyes in 2019 and has since developed into one of the Premier League’s most dynamic forwards. His 2024–25 campaign was his most productive to date, recording personal bests in goals, assists, and chances created.
Notably, Mbeumo’s shot conversion rate stood at an impressive 23.53%, behind only Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Newcastle’s Alexander Isak. His explosive carries and direct goal involvements underline his attacking threat — he led the league with nine goal-creating carries over five metres, a stat that sets him apart.
Mbeumo’s defensive contribution has also been lauded. He recovered the ball 32 times in the final third last season — the third-highest tally among all Premier League players. His combination of creativity, pressing intelligence, and end product has made him a standout in Brentford’s rise.
Sutton speaks on Mbeumo’s move
Former England striker Chris Sutton weighed in on the transfer, warning that Mbeumo will need to adjust quickly to the pressures at Old Trafford.
“He’s done well at Brentford, but playing for Manchester United is very different,” Sutton said. “There’s no hiding. At Brentford, the expectations are lower. At United, he’ll need to perform immediately.”
Nevertheless, Sutton believes Mbeumo brings a level of consistency and versatility that United’s current options — including Alejandro Garnacho and Antony — have lacked. “He’s experienced, a strong finisher, and capable of playing both centrally and on the wing,” Sutton noted. “United are looking for reliable output in those wide areas, and Mbeumo fits the profile.”
For United manager Ruben Amorim, Mbeumo’s tactical intelligence and high work rate appear to be critical factors. Amorim’s system — which often involves a high pressing back three — demands players who are technically gifted and mentally sharp both in and out of possession. Mbeumo’s proven Premier League pedigree makes him an ideal fit.
United’s attacking frailties were exposed last season, with inconsistent performances in the final third a key issue. Mbeumo’s arrival signals a clear intent to address that. His ability to carry the ball at pace, press from the front, and convert chances gives United a more rounded attacking threat.
However, questions remain about whether one standout season can be replicated on the biggest stage. With a hefty price tag and the weight of expectation, Mbeumo will be under immediate pressure to justify United’s investment.
Still, in Mbeumo, United are not just signing a player in form — they are securing a forward approaching his peak, with six years of English football experience and a profile built for Amorim’s high-octane football.
If he hits the ground running, Bryan Mbeumo could become one of the signings of the summer — and perhaps, a key figure in Manchester United’s push back to the top of English football.
