‘Bid Rejected’ – Man United Suffer Blow in the Race to Sign £70m Forward | OneFootball

Man Utd’s Pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo: Brentford Hold Firm as Negotiations Continue

Manchester United’s summer rebuild under Ruben Amorim is encountering stern resistance, with Brentford rejecting a second bid for Bryan Mbeumo, according to a report by Sky Sports News‘ Dharmesh Sheth. The offer, worth £62.5 million, matched the fee United recently paid for Matheus Cunha from Wolves, but it has not been enough to sway Brentford.

Despite United’s clear interest, Brentford are holding out for more. This is a club known for sticking to its valuation and strategy, and in Mbeumo’s case, they’re not willing to bend easily.

“Talks between the two sides are continuing,” reported Sheth, highlighting that “Mbeumo wants to join the Old Trafford club.” The player’s desire to make the move could prove crucial, particularly with the window ticking on and Amorim keen to assemble his attacking unit early.

Photo: IMAGO

Brentford’s Stance: Strong and Uncompromising

Brentford’s rejection speaks volumes about their current position in the Premier League hierarchy. No longer seen as simply a selling club, they’re determined to retain their key talent, or at least extract every possible penny. Mbeumo has been instrumental in their recent campaigns, especially following Ivan Toney’s absence and fluctuating form.

Valued not just for goals but his link-up play, tactical intelligence and versatility, Mbeumo has become indispensable. This refusal suggests Brentford might be seeking closer to £70 million or more, banking on United’s growing desperation and deep pockets.

Amorim’s Intent: An Attacking Refresh

Ruben Amorim’s arrival has brought tactical clarity and a clear vision. With the signing of Matheus Cunha already wrapped up, United’s manager is clearly prioritising a more dynamic frontline. Mbeumo would offer the kind of pressing intensity and positional fluidity Amorim favours.

A front three featuring Cunha, Mbeumo and Garnacho or Rashford could offer more movement, interchanging and creative unpredictability than United displayed last season. However, United’s attempts to secure Mbeumo without meeting Brentford’s demands could risk dragging negotiations into August.

Player’s Willingness: A Potential Turning Point

Crucially, Mbeumo wants the move. This is often where transfer stories gain momentum. When a player is open about their ambitions, as appears to be the case here, it puts pressure on the selling club to engage. United will hope Mbeumo’s desire to play under Amorim at Old Trafford, alongside a growing French influence in the squad, helps tip the balance.

Although there’s no indication yet that Brentford are softening, the fact that “talks are continuing” suggests that a compromise could yet be reached.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a relaxed Manchester United fan’s perspective, this feels like the sort of transfer saga we’ve become used to. The second bid being the exact same value as the Cunha deal shows the club is willing to back Amorim, but it also suggests we’re walking a financial tightrope. We’ve paid big already, and Brentford will know they can squeeze us a bit more.

To be fair, Mbeumo fits the project. He works hard, presses well, and is Premier League proven. He’s not the flashiest name out there, but that might actually be what we need. Amorim clearly has a plan, and Mbeumo could be that key player who complements Cunha without overshadowing the system.

Still, Brentford have every right to hold out. And we’ve been here before – chasing targets all summer only to miss out in the final days. Hopefully, the fact that Mbeumo wants the move will help this go through sooner rather than later. One thing’s for sure – Amorim won’t settle for a half-built squad going into the season.