Manchester United Target Brentford Star Bryan Mbeumo as Summer Rebuild Begins

Manchester United are setting the groundwork for a pivotal summer overhaul under prospective manager Rúben Amorim, with Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo emerging as a prime transfer target. According to Mike McGrath of The Telegraph, the Red Devils’ interest in the Cameroon international is both serious and strategic.

Valued at approximately £60 million, Mbeumo is expected to attract significant interest during the upcoming transfer window. McGrath reports that the Brentford forward “is understood to be high on the list of United’s potential targets to bolster Rúben Amorim’s squad.” His inclusion comes as no surprise, following a stellar season in which he has netted 18 goals and once again underlined his importance to Thomas Frank’s side.

With Brentford set to host United at the Gtech Community Stadium this weekend, the timing presents an ideal opportunity for United’s scouts and recruitment team to closely assess a player who has consistently excelled at the top level.

Amorim Begins Attacking Rebuild

The pursuit of Mbeumo is part of a broader strategy to reshape United’s attacking options. The departures of Marcus Rashford and Antony—both sent out on loan—marked the beginning of a new era under Amorim. While the decisions raised eyebrows at the time, the Portuguese tactician has made clear he is focused on long-term restructuring.

McGrath stated, “Amorim…admitted it was a risk to allow Marcus Rashford and Antony to leave in the January window but their departures were for the good of the team, with the inference that he is planning long-term without them.” This forward-thinking approach suggests a shift towards more versatile and direct attackers—qualities that Mbeumo undoubtedly possesses.

The 24-year-old’s pace, intelligent movement, and ability to drive at defences have made him one of the Premier League’s most consistent wide players. Whether cutting inside to score or creating space for teammates, Mbeumo’s style aligns with the tactical flexibility Amorim is thought to demand.

Financial Considerations and Profitability Rules

Any significant acquisition must also be viewed in the context of the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations. United have exercised restraint in recent transfer windows, with McGrath noting that the club “have been mindful of Premier League profit and sustainability rules after making losses over the last five years.”

Nonetheless, potential outgoings could provide the necessary funds. Rashford and Antony, both enjoying resurgent loan spells at Aston Villa and Real Betis respectively, may command respectable fees in the market. As McGrath highlights, “they could raise money from sales with Rashford and Antony increasing their market value.”

Those funds may prove crucial, not only for Mbeumo’s transfer but for other targets as well. Wolves striker Matheus Cunha is also reportedly on United’s radar. Although Cunha operates centrally and Mbeumo out wide, it is understood that the club’s interest in the two players is not mutually exclusive.

Brentford Prepared for High-Value Departure

Brentford are no strangers to profitable player sales. Following Ivan Toney’s move to Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia last summer, the club are once again prepared to consider offers for their top talent—provided their valuation is met.

Speaking earlier in the season, Thomas Frank was candid about the club’s approach: “If the price is right – and that’s going to be expensive – is coming, then I’m sure the club will be open to it,” he told Sky Sports. “We are a selling club… but at the same time we have to reinforce that there are 10 clubs in the world who aren’t selling clubs.”

That level of pragmatism could play into United’s hands. However, with interest also reported from Newcastle United and historic admiration from Liverpool, a competitive bidding environment could drive Mbeumo’s fee even higher.

Still, for a player acquired for just £5.8 million in 2019—who has helped lift Brentford from Championship contenders to Premier League stability—Mbeumo represents outstanding value and substantial potential. For United and Amorim, he may be a key figure in shaping the club’s next attacking chapter.