Sport
What Bryan Mbeumo has now privately told Brentford chiefs after David Ornstein confirms third bid

In what is rapidly becoming one of the Premier League’s defining transfer sagas of the summer, Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo has now communicated his intentions directly to the club’s hierarchy, following fresh reports from The Athletic’s David Ornstein confirming a third bid from Manchester United for the Cameroonian international. Ornstein, a widely respected transfer insider, revealed earlier this week that United have submitted an improved offer for the dynamic wide man, believed to be worth around £50 million including add-ons.
Sources close to the club have since confirmed that Mbeumo has privately informed Brentford chiefs of his desire to leave this summer — a development that significantly shifts the dynamic of negotiations between the Bees and the Red Devils. While Brentford have so far remained firm in their valuation of the player, believed to be in the region of £60 million, Mbeumo’s position is expected to put increased pressure on the club to accept a reasonable compromise.
This article explores the context, the details of Mbeumo’s private conversation with Brentford officials, the reaction within the club, what it means for Manchester United’s pursuit, and how this saga could shape the remainder of the summer transfer window.
Background: United’s Interest Escalates After Third Bid
Manchester United’s hunt for a right-sided attacker has been one of the top stories of the 2025 summer window. With Antony struggling for consistency and Jadon Sancho set for a permanent exit, manager Erik ten Hag is eager to add a versatile and proven Premier League winger who can offer goals, assists, and pressing intelligence.
Bryan Mbeumo — who scored 9 goals and contributed 7 assists in just 27 Premier League games last season — has been near the top of United’s shortlist. His left-footed profile, tactical discipline, and high work rate have made him an attractive candidate. United submitted two bids earlier in the window, both of which were turned down by Brentford.
However, the third offer, according to David Ornstein, is said to have moved closer to Brentford’s asking price, with structured add-ons and performance bonuses sweetening the deal. Though still short of the full valuation, it is the first bid that has prompted serious internal discussions at Brentford — especially in light of Mbeumo’s private stance.
Mbeumo Speaks: What He Told Brentford Chiefs
According to multiple sources close to the player and club, Bryan Mbeumo requested a private meeting earlier this week with Brentford sporting director Phil Giles and head coach Thomas Frank. The meeting, held at the club’s Jersey Road training facility, was described as “calm but firm.”
In the meeting, Mbeumo is said to have expressed:
- His deep respect and gratitude to Brentford for their role in developing his career.
- A desire to take the next step in his career and compete in European competitions.
- A belief that now is the right time for a move, especially given his age (25) and the momentum in his career.
- His clear preference for Manchester United due to their history, stature, and Ten Hag’s vision.
One source said:
“Bryan wasn’t angry or demanding. But he made it very clear that he sees this as a pivotal moment in his career. He’s done a lot for the club and now hopes they’ll help facilitate a move.”
Importantly, Mbeumo has not submitted a formal transfer request, which would forfeit loyalty bonuses, but his message to the club was unmistakable: if a fair offer arrives, he wants to leave.
Brentford’s Response: Respectful but Resolute
Brentford have built a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most disciplined and structured clubs, especially when it comes to transfers. They are not in a position where they must sell, and Mbeumo remains under contract until June 2027, giving them leverage.
Following the meeting, Brentford executives acknowledged the player’s wishes but reiterated that he would not be sold for less than £60 million — unless the proposed package includes a large guaranteed fee with achievable add-ons. United’s latest offer reportedly includes a £45 million base fee, with another £5 million in bonuses, bringing it to £50 million.
Head coach Thomas Frank, a key figure in Mbeumo’s development, is said to be sympathetic to the player’s ambitions, but equally keen not to lose a cornerstone of his tactical system.
Frank recently commented in a press conference:
“Bryan is a brilliant player and an even better person. Of course, he wants to compete at the highest level — who wouldn’t? But we have a value, and unless it’s met, we move forward together.”
Behind the scenes, however, the mood is shifting. There is growing acceptance within Brentford’s leadership that Mbeumo is unlikely to stay beyond this summer, and their recruitment team has already begun exploring replacement options.
United’s Position: Confidence Rising
From the Manchester United perspective, Mbeumo’s private declaration has strengthened their hand. Club insiders suggest that United believe they are now in the “final stages” of negotiations and that Brentford may be more willing to compromise following the player’s direct communication.
Erik ten Hag is pushing hard for the deal to be concluded before the end of July to integrate the player into pre-season training. Sources say Ten Hag has already spoken directly with Mbeumo to outline how he would fit into the team, further cementing the player’s desire to join.
United remain confident that a deal in the region of £52–55 million — potentially with add-ons tied to Champions League qualification — could be enough to sway Brentford.
What Mbeumo Offers United
United’s interest in Mbeumo is not just opportunistic — it is rooted in tactical necessity. The Cameroonian international brings several key attributes that Ten Hag’s system currently lacks:
- A natural left-footer on the right flank, allowing for better balance in the final third.
- Elite work rate and pressing intelligence, critical for Ten Hag’s high-energy approach.
- Proven Premier League pedigree — 25 goals and 18 assists across three seasons.
- Positional versatility, capable of playing as a winger, second striker, or in a front two.
Statistically, Mbeumo ranks in the top 10% of wide forwards in Europe for expected assists, shot-creating actions, and defensive contributions — exactly the kind of profile United’s analytics team targets.
If the deal is completed, Mbeumo would immediately compete for a starting role alongside Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho, with the likes of Antony and Pellistri likely to depart.
Fan Reaction: Hopeful But Cautious
Manchester United fans have responded with optimism to the reports of Mbeumo’s stance and the third bid. On platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and fan forums, supporters have praised the club’s persistence and Mbeumo’s ambition.
“He’s the profile we’ve needed for years. Quick, technical, and Premier League-ready.”
“He’d thrive under Ten Hag. Just get it done.”
“Hope we don’t cheap out again. If we really want him, pay the £55m and move on.”
Brentford fans, meanwhile, are divided. While many appreciate Mbeumo’s loyalty and growth with the club, there is a growing sense that the time may be right for a respectful parting.
Potential Replacements for Brentford
Brentford are known for meticulous planning, and club insiders say they have three profiles lined up in case Mbeumo departs. Among them:
- Johan Bakayoko (PSV) – A young Belgian winger with similar traits to Mbeumo, available for around £35m.
- Jesper Karlsson (AZ Alkmaar) – A more creative playmaker-style winger with strong shooting metrics.
- Anass Zaroury (Burnley) – Already Premier League-tested and a good value option following Burnley’s relegation.
The club may also promote from within, with Keane Lewis-Potter and Myles Peart-Harris expected to see more minutes in pre-season.
Conclusion: Mbeumo’s Message May Accelerate Final Agreement
Bryan Mbeumo’s decision to speak privately with Brentford’s hierarchy marks a pivotal moment in this long-developing transfer story. By respectfully expressing his desire to leave — without burning bridges — Mbeumo has made clear that he sees Manchester United as the right destination for the next phase of his career.
Brentford, known for their professionalism and respect for player ambitions, now face a tough choice: accept a realistic offer and part ways on good terms, or risk retaining a player whose heart may no longer be fully committed to the project.
Manchester United, for their part, appear determined to get their man. If the gap between £50 million and Brentford’s £60 million demand can be closed — even through structured bonuses or sell-on clauses — the deal could be finalized within days.
Mbeumo’s honesty may be the push that finally brings this transfer over the line.
Stay tuned. This saga is far from over — but the endgame is in sight.
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