Bryan Mbeumo would give Manchester United something they are desperately short of, says Brentford boss Thomas Frank. The Cameroon ace is on United's radar after the club struck a deal to sign Matheus Cunha from Wolves.
Mbeumo is believed to be keen on a move to the Red Devils despite their dreadful campaign and lack of European action next season. A deal to sign Mbeumo is yet to be finalised, with the 25-year-old believed to be demanding a £250,000-per-week deal. Should the deal be completed, Frank has already told United – a team crying out for leaders on the pitch – exactly what they can expect from Mbeumo.
With United's leadership mainly shouldered by skipper Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire, Mbeumo's character could be critical in bolstering the side's resolve.
Maguire's influence was deemed important enough to warrant a contract extension until 2026, with his previous deal set to end this summer.
Ruben Amorim, speaking earlier this year, emphasised the lack of leadership within the team. He said: "When you look at our team, we are starving for leaders on the pitch. He [Maguire] is a leader. We are happy to continue with him."
Back in 2023, Frank hailed Mbeumo's leadership qualities. After a victory over West Ham, the Danish coach lauded Mbeumo, saying: "I praised him a couple of weeks ago because he drives training with his attitude and work ethic and determination to want to get better and win." Frank emphasised Mbeumo's potential, adding: "He's definitely a leader in the making."
It's set to be a busy summer at United, with arrivals set to be coupled with departures. Jadon Sancho is among the players set to sever ties with the club, although he won't be returning to Chelsea, where he spent last season on loan. The Blues are prepared to pay a £5million penalty fee to avoid an obligation to sign him permanently.
In what appeared to be a farewell message to Chelsea, Sancho posted on X: "Grateful for the experience. Big love to everyone at Chelsea who made me feel at home - team-mates, staff and the fans. Wishing the club all the best moving forward. Truly grateful, thank you Blues."
However, Fernandes looks set to stay put, having declined a lucrative offer from Saudi Pro League's Al Hilal, which would have seen him earn up to £700,000 per week. Fernandes confirmed his decision to stay after discussions with Amorim and his family, revealing during a Portugal press conference via O Jogo: "The president of Al Hilal called me a month ago to ask about the possibility of me moving there.
"I had to wait a while to think about the future. As I've always said, I would be willing to do it if United thought it was best to move on. I spoke with Ruben Amorim, who really tried to talk me out of it. I spoke to the club, who said they weren't willing to sell me, only if I wanted to leave."