Arsenal are reportedly “ready” to rival Manchester United to sign Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo this summer.
The Gunners have previously been linked to Mbeumo, who has been one of the best attacking talents in the Premier League this season.
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It is likely that Mikel Arteta will strengthen in the winger position, but many reports have suggested that Arsenal’s primary target will be Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, however, Mbeumo has now emerged as a favourite.
The Cameroon international has made 41 appearances for Brentford this season, scoring 19 goals and providing nine assists, helping Thomas Frank’s side to their best ever Premier League points tally.
Man United have been strongly linked to signing Mbeumo, with the Standard reporting that they are willing to offer a figure of £54m to try and land the 25-year-old. However, the report also includes that Arsenal are “ready to rival” United in the race for Mbeumo, and could come in with a similar offer.
It also says that Brentford are ready to cash in on the winger this summer as he only has one year left on his contract at the Gtech Community Stadium, and his next wage demands would be expected to raise significantly because of his superb form.
Former Premier League striker Troy Deeney was full of praise for him on BBC Sport, he said: “Every single time I watch Brentford I expect him to score now. It is a wonderful thing to have.”
Mbeumo could be a safer choice to Nico Williams
Williams has been linked with Arsenal since Euro 2024 when he broke out for Spain, and showed the European stage, just how good he can be.
However, he is less proven than Mbeumo, and doesn’t have experience in the Premier League. This season, Williams has made 44 appearances for Bilbao, scoring 11 goals and providing seven assists. He is expected to command a fee of £48m – the release clause in his contract.
For just around £6m more, Arsenal could go for Mbeumo, who is proven in the Premier League, has scored more goals and assists this season, and is more experienced. It is certainly something for Arteta and Sporting Director Andrea Berta to consider heading into the summer transfer window.
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