Man Utd deadline passes as Spurs circle for Brentford star | OneFootball

Man Utd Risk Losing Mbeumo as Spurs Reignite Interest in Brentford Star

Missed deadline signals shift in Manchester United’s approach

Manchester United have allowed their self-imposed deadline to sign Bryan Mbeumo to pass without agreement, raising serious questions over their strategy and commitment in this summer’s market. With the club’s players returning for pre-season at Carrington on Monday July 7, the Red Devils had privately hoped to finalise a deal for the Brentford forward by that date.

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United had made Mbeumo a priority, submitting two formal offers, including one equalling the £62.5 million paid for Matheus Cunha earlier this summer. Brentford, however, rejected both approaches, reportedly holding out for a fee closer to £65 million, with a significant upfront payment.

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Mbeumo, who contributed 20 goals and nine assists in 42 appearances last season, has made clear his intention to leave and has a preference for Old Trafford. However, his current contract, while technically entering its final year, includes an option for a 12-month extension, giving Brentford the upper hand in negotiations.

The failure to get a deal over the line before the squad reconvened casts doubt on whether United can proceed further without moving players on first. With budget constraints and other positional targets to consider, there is now genuine concern that Ruben Amorim’s side may need to shift focus.

Tottenham sense opportunity as Levy prepares fresh push

Manchester United’s hesitation has not gone unnoticed. According to The Mirror, Tottenham are prepared to re-enter the race for Mbeumo, with chairman Daniel Levy reportedly planning to fund a fresh bid by offloading Manor Solomon and Bryan Gil.

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Mbeumo enjoyed a strong relationship with Spurs boss Thomas Frank during their time at Brentford, and there is confidence in North London that this connection could tilt the scales.

Spurs commentator John Wenham has said, “I think that Tottenham could revisit a deal for Mbeumo later in the window. Especially when you consider the sales that Tottenham are still likely to make. I think Solomon still departs, and I think Gil will be sold too.”

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While it remains to be seen whether Spurs will meet Brentford’s valuation, they are clearly positioning themselves to strike should United falter any further.

Communication ongoing but confidence shaken

Despite the missed deadline, some at Manchester United remain hopeful. Industry sources suggest that talks between United and Brentford have not collapsed, although momentum has clearly slowed. United are now also considering alternative forward targets, with Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins among those under active consideration.

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Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently commented: “There is still no here we go, but Man United keep working on that, United keep advancing, United keep their confidence and their optimism to make the deal happen.”

He added, “Don’t forget the Bryan Mbeumo deal for the next days, for the next week also, because Man United will be pushing and pushing again to get it over the line.”

Financial priorities may dictate outcome

Ultimately, Manchester United’s approach is being shaped by financial constraints and the need to balance ambition with pragmatism. Having already committed significant resources to other areas of the squad, including a new midfielder and centre-back, a third high-value addition may depend on sales.

While Mbeumo remains open to the move and keen on the project at Old Trafford, Brentford’s hardline stance has complicated matters. Their valuation reflects not just his recent output, but his versatility, durability and growing international profile.

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Unless United are willing to meet those demands, either through revised payment structures or player sales, they may be forced to concede ground to Spurs or explore other options entirely.

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This situation is as predictable as it is frustrating. Once again, the United sets a deadline, builds momentum in the media, makes a couple of offers, then watches it all slip into uncertainty because they cannot quite commit financially.

It is baffling that a player who actively prefers a move to Old Trafford and fits the tactical mould United need is still not through the door. The club’s forward line is crying out for someone like Mbeumo, direct, intelligent in movement, capable of linking play and delivering goals.

Supporters understand financial caution, especially under the new ownership structure, but what is more concerning is the lack of ruthlessness in negotiations. Spurs, armed with a clearer structure and willing to act swiftly, could now swoop in and hijack a deal that was there for United to complete weeks ago.

If this transfer collapses and Mbeumo ends up in North London, it will reflect poorly not just on United’s transfer execution but also their planning. For fans, that breeds more doubt than confidence heading into the new season.