Manchester United’s £62.5m Bid Rejected as Brentford Hold Out for Maximum Value

Manchester United’s pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo continues to dominate the headlines after their second bid for the Brentford star was rejected. The Red Devils had tabled an improved offer reportedly worth £62.5 million, structured as £55 million upfront with an additional £7.5 million in add-ons.

However, Brentford are said to be holding out for a guaranteed fee that matches the upfront value received for Matheus Cunha in a previous deal.

The rejection of this second bid signals that Brentford are standing firm in their valuation of Mbeumo, who enjoyed a stellar campaign last season. The Bees view the winger as a key asset and are reluctant to let him go without securing maximum value, especially in a market where top forwards command premium fees.

Manchester United’s current offer simply doesn’t meet that standard.Despite the setback, there is a sense of optimism that a deal could still be reached.

Negotiations remain ongoing, and all parties are reportedly keen to find a resolution. Mbeumo is said to be eager for the move and has made it clear that he prefers a switch to Manchester United over any other club.Interestingly, the 25-year-old forward has reportedly rejected interest from both Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United.

This gives Manchester United a significant advantage in negotiations, as the player’s desire to join them may put pressure on Brentford to reconsider their stance—especially if Mbeumo pushes for the move behind the scenes.

Mbeumo’s statistics from the 2024/25 season back up the level of interest he’s attracting. He registered 20 Premier League goals and provided seven assists, showcasing his effectiveness both as a finisher and a creator. Such numbers make him one of the most productive wide forwards in the division, further justifying Brentford’s hardline position on his valuation.

For Manchester United, Mbeumo represents a strategic addition. His versatility, pace, and ability to score from wide positions would complement the current attacking setup. With Erik ten Hag keen to add more firepower, Mbeumo’s arrival would enhance the club’s options significantly ahead of the new season.

While Manchester United are financially capable of completing the transfer, the club is also maintaining a disciplined approach to spending this summer. Having already completed deals for Matheus Cunha and Jeremie Frimpong, they are looking to avoid overpaying for targets, especially in terms of structured deals loaded with add-ons.

Brentford, on the other hand, want the bulk of the fee guaranteed upfront. Their position is that Mbeumo, given his performance levels and Premier League experience, deserves a valuation that reflects his importance and impact. They have reportedly used the Cunha deal as a benchmark, insisting that any fee must meet or exceed that transaction in guaranteed terms.

With pre-season fast approaching, Manchester United are under some pressure to wrap up their incoming transfers. Sources close to the club indicate that they hope to finalize the deal before players report back for training around July 7. That timeline could push the club into accelerating talks or reshaping their offer to meet Brentford’s conditions.

The player himself is believed to be excited about the potential move. Mbeumo is open to signing a five-year contract at Old Trafford, with a weekly wage in the region of £180,000 to £250,000. That would represent a major step up from his current deal at Brentford and further reinforces his motivation to seal the switch.Brentford have built a reputation for being tough negotiators, and their stance in the Mbeumo saga reflects that.

They have shown time and again that they are not easily swayed by pressure, and will only sell when their valuation is met. For now, Manchester United will have to return with a third bid if they are to finally land their target.

What remains clear is that Bryan Mbeumo wants Manchester United. His refusal to consider offers from other Premier League clubs speaks volumes about his intentions and his view of United as the ideal next step in his career. That preference might eventually force Brentford’s hand if he chooses to formally request a transfer.In terms of squad building, United see Mbeumo as an important piece of the puzzle.

The club is restructuring its attack and preparing for the possible departure or reduced role of other wide players. Mbeumo’s ability to slot in on either flank makes him a key target for the coaching staff.The next few days will be critical. If Manchester United return with an improved offer that matches Brentford’s guaranteed fee demands, the deal could move quickly. If not, the stalemate may continue deeper into the window, potentially complicating both clubs’ preparations for the new campaign.

All eyes now turn to the negotiating table. With Mbeumo’s camp pushing for the transfer and Manchester United eager to add quality, the onus is on both clubs to find common ground. Whether that happens sooner or later will shape not just United’s summer plans, but also Brentford’s trajectory heading into the 2025/26 season.