Bryan Mbeumo already told Liverpool what he wants ahead of transfer audition

Bryan Mbeumo is set to face Liverpool this weekend as Brentford hosts the Premier League leaders, and all eyes will be on the Cameroonian international as he auditions for what could be a blockbuster transfer. The dynamic winger has been one of the most productive right-sided forwards in the league this season, fueling speculation that he might soon follow Mohamed Salah’s path to stardom at Anfield.

For Liverpool, the uncertainty surrounding Salah’s contract has heightened their need to identify a potential successor. Salah’s current deal expires at the end of the season, and despite his expressed desire to continue with the Reds, negotiations over an extension remain stalled. If Salah does depart, Mbeumo has positioned himself as a prime candidate to step into his shoes.

Heading into this weekend, Mbeumo’s stats speak volumes. The 25-year-old has registered 13 goals and three assists for Brentford, a tally second only to Salah among Premier League right-sided attackers. His consistency and attacking prowess make him a standout option for a Liverpool side that thrives on high-octane, attacking football.

Mbeumo has hinted at ambitions that stretch beyond Brentford. In an interview with L’Equipe last summer, he said, “I’ve spent five seasons at Brentford, in a club that knew how to help me grow and take a step forward. I want to play in the biggest competitions, in the best clubs.” Those aspirations align seamlessly with what Liverpool offers: a chance to compete at the highest level, both domestically and in Europe.

This hunger for elite competition was reiterated in 2023 when Mbeumo told the Evening Standard, “I would like to win the Champions League. Anything is possible.” Such a statement underscores his desire to challenge himself on football’s grandest stages, a scenario Liverpool could provide should he make the move.

Brentford manager Thomas Frank, however, remains defiant about keeping hold of his star player. When asked on Friday about the possibility of losing Mbeumo in the January window, Frank responded emphatically: “Nope. It would take a fee so big, I can’t imagine the size of it.” While Brentford is keen to retain their talisman, Liverpool’s financial clout could tilt the scales if they deem him essential to their post-Salah plans.

Mbeumo’s versatility further strengthens his case. While primarily deployed as a right winger, he’s equally effective across the front line, making him a valuable asset for any tactical setup. His speed, creativity, and knack for finding the back of the net would make him a seamless fit in Jürgen Klopp’s high-pressing system.

The spotlight will undoubtedly be on Mbeumo when he takes the field against Liverpool. A standout performance could serve as the perfect advertisement for his suitability to wear the famous red shirt. For Liverpool, this match also doubles as a chance to evaluate him closely, particularly as they navigate a future that may no longer include their Egyptian King.

Salah’s contributions to Liverpool have been monumental, but football is a game of transitions. Identifying the next figure to lead their attack is crucial for the Reds to maintain their competitive edge. Mbeumo, with his impressive stats and evident ambition, could well be the heir to Salah’s throne.

Despite his desire to move to a bigger club, Mbeumo has remained professional and committed to Brentford. His performances have been pivotal in helping the Bees establish themselves as a mid-table Premier League side capable of punching above their weight. However, his ambitions to win major trophies and play Champions League football suggest a move is inevitable, whether in January or the summer.

Liverpool’s interest in Mbeumo also aligns with their broader transfer strategy. The club has increasingly focused on identifying players who can make an immediate impact while still possessing the potential for long-term development. Mbeumo, at 25, strikes the perfect balance between experience and untapped potential.

Should Liverpool make a move, it would represent a step up not just for Mbeumo but also for the club, who would secure a player hungry to prove himself on the biggest stages. For Brentford, losing their star player would be a blow, but it’s a reality they’ve faced before with players like Ollie Watkins and Neal Maupay.

As the January transfer window heats up, speculation surrounding Mbeumo’s future will only intensify. For now, his focus remains on Brentford’s clash with Liverpool. But with each passing day, the prospect of him donning the famous red jersey seems more plausible.

For Liverpool fans, the potential arrival of Mbeumo offers hope amidst uncertainty. Replacing a legend like Salah is no easy task, but in Mbeumo, they might just have found the perfect successor. The Cameroonian has already proven his ability to shine in the Premier League, and a move to Anfield could take his career to new heights.

The match on Saturday could be a defining moment in this saga. Whether Mbeumo scores, assists, or simply impresses with his work rate and creativity, Liverpool’s decision-makers will be watching closely. For Mbeumo, it’s an opportunity to show he’s ready for the big time—and for Liverpool, it’s a chance to catch a glimpse of what the future could hold.