Brentford Reject Improved £62.5m Manchester United Bid for Bryan Mbeumo

Brentford have turned down an improved offer from Manchester United for Cameroon forward Bryan Mbeumo. The latest bid, worth £62.5m, comprised a £55m initial fee plus £7.5m in add-ons, falling short of Brentford's valuation. This follows an earlier rejected bid of £45m plus £10m in potential add-ons.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is keen to bolster his attacking options, having already secured the services of Matheus Cunha from Wolves for a reported £62.5m. However, the pursuit of Mbeumo is proving more challenging, with Brentford reportedly seeking a similar up-front fee to that received for Cunha before considering a sale.

Brentford Hold Firm on Valuation

Mbeumo, 25, enjoyed a stellar season for Brentford, scoring a career-best 20 goals and providing nine assists. With one year remaining on his contract, Brentford are in a strong negotiating position. Sources close to the club suggest they are unwilling to let go of a key player unless their valuation is met. They see him as integral to their Premier League ambitions.

“Brentford’s stance is understandable,” explains football finance expert Dr. Dan Plumley from Sheffield Hallam University. “He’s proven Premier League quality, and with only a year left on his contract, they can command a premium. Selling now avoids the risk of losing him for nothing next summer, but they won’t be bullied into a deal below their perceived value. United need to decide how much they truly want him.”

Competition from Tottenham and Champions League Clubs

Manchester United may not be the only club vying for Mbeumo's signature. Reports suggest that Tottenham Hotspur, now managed by former Brentford boss Thomas Frank, are also interested in the player. Several other Champions League clubs are also rumoured to be monitoring the situation.

“Thomas Frank knows Mbeumo’s capabilities intimately,” says BBC Sport football analyst Alan Shearer. “He brought him to Brentford and developed him into a Premier League star. That existing relationship could give Tottenham an edge, but United’s financial muscle shouldn’t be underestimated. This could turn into a fascinating transfer battle.”

Impact of Africa Cup of Nations

One potential concern for prospective buyers is Mbeumo's likely participation in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, scheduled for December and January 2026. As an international teammate of Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana, Mbeumo is expected to feature prominently for Cameroon, potentially missing up to four weeks of the Premier League season.

Cameroon are drawn in a group alongside Gabon and will begin their campaign on December 24th. While the AFCON commitment is a factor, Mbeumo's overall quality and potential have clearly outweighed this for Manchester United, evidenced by their increased bid.

Mbeumo's Journey to the Premier League

Mbeumo joined Brentford from French club Troyes in 2019, during their time in the Championship. He played a pivotal role in their promotion to the Premier League in 2021, contributing significantly with goals and assists. In 242 appearances for the Bees across all competitions, he has scored 70 goals, establishing himself as a firm favourite with the Brentford faithful.

Manchester United must now decide whether to increase their offer further or explore alternative targets. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining Mbeumo's future and whether he will be playing his football at Old Trafford next season.

Manchester United's improved bid for Bryan Mbeumo rejected by Brentford. The bid was worth £62.5m, comprising £55m plus £7.5m in add-ons. Brentford reportedly seeking a fee similar to the £62.5m Wolves received for Matheus Cunha. Tottenham Hotspur and other Champions League clubs also interested. Mbeumo likely to miss several weeks due to AFCON participation in 2026.