Manchester United Transfer Update: Mbeumo Deal Faces Delays as Pre-Season Begins
As Manchester United gear up for the 2025/26 Premier League campaign, the squad has already returned to Carrington for pre-season training.
With just over five weeks remaining before their opening match against Arsenal at Old Trafford, new manager Rúben Amorim is under pressure to reshape the team — but progress in the transfer market has slowed significantly, leaving fans anxious.
Early Statement: Matheus Cunha Signs for £62.5M
United began their summer business on a strong note by signing Brazilian striker Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers for £62.5 million.
The deal was widely seen as a bold move and a clear indicator of Amorim’s intent to strengthen the attacking line. Cunha is expected to play a key role in the new-look offense.
However, despite this initial burst of activity, the pace has dropped off dramatically since, especially regarding other high-priority targets.
Mbeumo Deal Stuck in Limbo
A major concern is the stalled pursuit of Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo.
United have submitted two offers for the 25-year-old — the first around £55 million and the second over £60 million — but Brentford responded by increasing their asking price.
Despite the player’s desire to join Manchester United, the two clubs have yet to reach a breakthrough, and a third bid has not yet been submitted.
This deadlock has become a growing point of frustration for fans, especially considering Mbeumo’s impressive record from last season, where he scored 20 goals in the Premier League — more than any United forward.
Supporters had hoped the deal would be wrapped up before pre-season fixtures began, but as time ticks away, doubts are beginning to grow.
No Sales, No Further Signings
One of the main obstacles to completing additional signings is the lack of player sales.
To stay within financial fair play guidelines (PSR – Profit and Sustainability Rules), United need to offload players before making new acquisitions. As of now, no major departures have taken place.
Casemiro, Jadon Sancho, and Mason Greenwood are all reportedly available for sale, but no permanent moves have materialized.
This lack of outgoings is not only affecting the Mbeumo deal but also delaying progress on other targets.
Players such as Joao Neves, Matthijs de Ligt, and Joshua Zirkzee remain on the radar, but United’s hands are tied until they generate income through transfers.
Pre-Season Pressure Builds
United’s pre-season begins shortly, with a match against Leeds in Stockholm, followed by a tour of the United States for the Premier League Summer Series. The first fixture of that series will be against West Ham on July 27.
Amorim has expressed his preference to complete most of the transfer business before the team departs, allowing new signings time to adapt and integrate into the squad.
However, with the Mbeumo situation dragging on and other deals on hold due to financial constraints, the pressure is mounting.
The club’s inability to finalize key deals could leave them underprepared as the new season approaches.
The Mbeumo transfer saga is symbolic of broader issues at the club, including financial limitations and an urgent need to sell players before buying more. As fans watch and wait, the clock continues to tick.
