Brentford star on ‘radar’ of Newcastle United as Eddie Howe’s side mull over transfer bid

As the 2025 summer transfer window gathers momentum, Newcastle United are quietly emerging as one of the most intriguing clubs to watch. Despite a muted start to the window due to Financial Fair Play (FFP) constraints and the need to offload fringe players, the Magpies appear ready to make their first significant move — and their sights are now set on a Brentford star, reportedly high on manager Eddie Howe’s transfer shortlist.

Multiple sources have confirmed that Brentford attacker Bryan Mbeumo is firmly on the radar of Newcastle United, with Howe’s recruitment team currently weighing up a formal bid. The 25-year-old Cameroon international is being viewed as a versatile forward option capable of operating across the front line — and one who fits Newcastle’s need for proven Premier League experience, tactical versatility, and immediate impact.

This article will explore the latest developments around Newcastle’s interest, how Mbeumo fits into Howe’s system, what Brentford’s stance on a potential sale might be, and how the move could reshape both clubs’ transfer strategies heading into the 2025/26 season.

---

Newcastle’s Renewed Focus in the Market

Newcastle’s 2025 summer has, until now, been defined more by exits and contract renewals than headline arrivals. Following a fourth-place finish in the Premier League last season and another berth in the UEFA Champions League, the club must now reinforce depth and raise the squad’s technical ceiling to avoid another injury-hit campaign like 2023/24.

Sporting Director Dan Ashworth and Head of Recruitment Steve Nickson have been tasked with identifying Premier League-proven talent, especially with the club targeting top-four consistency and a deeper run in Europe. While younger prospects remain part of the long-term vision, this summer’s focus is on players who can contribute immediately — and Bryan Mbeumo, fresh off another strong season with Brentford, fits that profile.

---

The Player: Why Bryan Mbeumo Appeals to Newcastle

Mbeumo has become one of the most consistent and underrated forwards in the Premier League. Over the past three seasons, he’s averaged a combined 15 goal contributions (goals + assists) per campaign, even while operating in a Brentford side not always dominating possession or field position.

🔑 Key Attributes

• Versatility: Can play as a right winger, inside forward, second striker, or even centrally.
• Pressing: Excellent work rate off the ball, a key trait for Howe’s high-press system.
• Creativity: Among the top players outside the big six for xA (expected assists).
• Set-piece threat: Capable free-kick and corner taker, providing an added dimension.

At 25 years old, Mbeumo is entering his prime years, and his skillset aligns perfectly with Newcastle’s tactical approach. With the right investment, he could become a core piece of a frontline that already includes Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon, and the emerging Yankuba Minteh.

Eddie Howe is believed to be an admirer of Mbeumo’s intelligence and movement, having seen him cause problems against Newcastle in past encounters. With doubts over Miguel Almirón’s consistency and availability — and with Jacob Murphy seen as more of a rotation option — the right-wing slot is still open for upgrade.

---

The Numbers: Mbeumo’s 2024/25 Season in Review

Despite Brentford’s injury troubles and a mid-table finish last season, Mbeumo remained one of the league’s most efficient wide attackers:

• 27 Appearances
• 9 Goals
• 7 Assists
• 2.1 Key Passes per Game
• 1.9 Successful Dribbles per Game
• Top 10% in EPL for xA per 90

Perhaps most importantly, Mbeumo’s availability (barring a short injury spell in winter) and adaptability made him one of Thomas Frank’s most trusted players.

---

Inside Newcastle’s Thinking: Timing, Budget, and Competition

💰 FFP Considerations

One challenge Newcastle face is staying compliant with FFP regulations. Despite Saudi PIF ownership, the club’s commercial income still lags behind traditional heavyweights, meaning spending must be balanced with income from outgoing transfers (like the recent £35m sale of Callum Wilson to West Ham) and Champions League prize money.

Brentford reportedly value Mbeumo between £60m and £70m, a figure Newcastle may attempt to negotiate down by offering structured payments or including player swaps.

🧠 Strategic Targeting

Rather than making flashy statements, Newcastle are opting for functional, high-character signings who raise the squad’s baseline. Mbeumo’s reputation as a professional, his work ethic, and his Premier League readiness make him less of a risk than players coming from foreign leagues.

---

Brentford’s Perspective: To Sell or Not to Sell

The Bees have built a reputation for smart business under Director of Football Phil Giles and manager Thomas Frank. They rarely stand in a player’s way if the right offer comes in — and they often have replacements lined up before deals are finalized.

With Mbeumo’s contract running until summer 2027, Brentford hold a strong negotiating position, but they are also aware that this summer may represent their best chance to maximize value. The player is believed to be open to a move — especially to a club playing Champions League football — but will not force a transfer.

Recent reports suggest Brentford have been monitoring potential replacements, including:

• Jesper Karlsson (AZ Alkmaar) – Technically gifted winger with a similar profile.
• Johan Bakayoko (PSV) – Already linked to multiple Premier League clubs.
• Anass Zaroury (Burnley) – Previously targeted by the Bees.

Brentford also have internal options to promote, including Keane Lewis-Potter and Myles Peart-Harris, both of whom are expected to take on more responsibility in 2025/26.

---

Potential Structure of the Deal

Given the financial dynamics at both clubs, any Newcastle offer would likely include performance-based add-ons and a staggered payment plan. A speculative structure might look like:

• £55m base fee
• £5m in achievable add-ons (goals, appearances)
• £5m in long-term bonuses (Champions League qualification, trophies)

Alternatively, Newcastle could offer a player as part of the deal — someone like Matt Ritchie (return to Brentford roots?) or Elliot Anderson, though Brentford prefer straight-cash deals.

---

What Mbeumo Would Mean for Newcastle’s XI

If signed, Mbeumo could instantly slot into a starting role on the right wing. A potential lineup could be:

markdownCopyEdit                 Isak
Gordon        - Bruno - Mbeumo
         Tonali     Joelinton
Burn   Botman   Schär   Trippier
              Pope

Mbeumo’s presence would allow more balance across the front line, with Gordon and Mbeumo both capable of tracking back and pressing aggressively. It also enables flexibility to switch to a 4-2-3-1 or 3-4-3, which Howe has experimented with in preseason.

---

Fan Reactions and Wider Implications

Newcastle fans have reacted positively to links with Mbeumo, seeing it as a smart, strategic acquisition rather than a flashy marquee name. On social media and forums like NUFC Blog and ToonForum, some comments include:

“This is exactly the kind of player we need — Prem proven, no drama, works hard.”
“Mbeumo has hurt us in the past — I’ll happily see him do that FOR us instead of against us.”
“If this is the start of a smart window, sign me up. Midfield and full-back next.”

Brentford fans, while resigned to the possibility of losing their star, trust the club’s ability to reinvest:

“We’ve sold big names before and bounced back. If they pay up, fair play.”
“Mbeumo deserves Champions League football. Thanks for everything if he goes.”

---

Competition From Elsewhere?

Manchester United, Tottenham, and Aston Villa have all been linked with Mbeumo at various stages this summer. However, with United nearing other targets and Spurs focusing on defenders, Newcastle may now face the least competition — if they act quickly.

Villa could be an outside threat if they miss out on Moussa Diaby’s replacement, while Liverpool are reportedly monitoring the situation but have not made contact.

---

Conclusion: A Deal That Makes Sense for All Parties

While no formal bid has yet been submitted, Newcastle United’s interest in Bryan Mbeumo is genuine and growing. With Champions League ambitions, positional need, and the right tactical fit, this is a move that aligns with both club philosophy and squad priorities.

Brentford, meanwhile, may be ready to move on from one of their stars, secure in their structure and scouting setup. For Mbeumo, it could be the next logical step in a career that has quietly made him one of the most effective wingers in English football.

Whether this deal materializes will depend on how swiftly Newcastle act — and how close they are willing to go to Brentford’s asking price.

One thing is clear: With the window open and squads forming quickly, time is of the essence. The ball is in the Magpies’ court.