‘Not Held to Ransom’—Man Utd Set Bryan Mbeumo ‘Limit’ | OneFootball

Manchester United have seen efforts to sign Bryan Mbeumo stall after refusing to pay more than their valuation of the Brentford forward, a report has claimed.

United’s only senior recruit so far this summer remains Matheus Cunha after triggering the Brazilian’s release clause last month—teenagers Diego León and Enzo Kana-Biyik have also been signed, although the latter has immediately been loaned to INEOS-owned Lausanne-Sport.

Mbeumo, who scored 20 Premier League goals in 2024–25, made clear his preference for United following the conclusion of last season, but the clubs have so far not negotiated a transfer.

The Guardian writes that co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and new sporting director Jason Wilcox believed at the end of June that a £65 million ($87.1 million) package would be accepted. Brentford are even said to have “indicated privately” that a medical was “expected imminently”.

Mbeumo scored 20 Premier League goals last season. / IMAGO/Action Plus

The report adds that Ratcliffe is “intent on not being pushed into paying more” than £65 million. He and Wilcox, who has filled the position vacated by Dan Ashworth last December after originally being appointed technical director “do not wish to be held to ransom” and favour a “patient” approach.

Where that leaves United’s pursuit of Mbeumo is unclear. The Guardian notes that Brentford’s valuation of the player is “closer to” £70 million ($93.8 million). Other reports have previously suggested it is already higher than that amount and potentially up to £75 million ($100.5 million).

The Red Devils want Mbeumo before departing for the pre-season tour of the United States next week, with a first friendly of the summer to be held in Sweden this coming weekend. The Cameroon international had wanted things done before Brentford started pre-season, so that he wouldn’t have to begin preparations for the new campaign with his future still in limbo. It was a deadline that has now already passed as of the last few days.

United have seen two offers turned down by Brentford so far, the second totalling £62.5 million ($83.7 million), which is the same amount paid for Cunha.