The ongoing negotiations between Manchester United and Brentford over winger Bryan Mbeumo are beginning to wear thin on the patience of the Red Devils’ supporters.
As rival clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea continue to make significant strides in the transfer market, United fans are growing increasingly anxious about their club’s lack of progress in this deal.
While Mbeumo remains a serious target, talks have stalled, primarily due to Brentford’s firm stance on a £60 million valuation—a figure Manchester United are hesitant to meet.
Despite the frustration, United still have multiple avenues to explore if the Mbeumo deal fails to materialize. Former striker Louis Saha has publicly urged the club to bite the bullet and meet Brentford’s demands, arguing that it’s better to secure a proven Premier League performer now than to risk losing him altogether.
According to Saha, dragging negotiations any further could backfire, especially if another club swoops in or if Brentford withdraws from talks entirely.
There are currently three main paths United can take moving forward:
Pay Brentford’s Full Asking Price
The most direct approach would be to simply match the £60 million valuation and finalize the deal quickly—ideally before the squad begins pre-season training.
This would provide manager Rúben Amorim with a versatile forward ready to integrate into the system early.
However, this move would significantly dent the budget, possibly limiting United’s ability to invest in other critical areas such as midfield or the striker position.
Continue Talks While Considering Alternatives
United may also decide to continue negotiations with Brentford in hopes of lowering the fee, while simultaneously keeping tabs on alternative targets. Players like Eberechi Eze, Antoine Semenyo, and Xavi Simons have all been linked.
Eze brings Premier League experience and flair but could command a hefty fee similar to or higher than Mbeumo. Semenyo is a rising talent with strength and speed but lacks experience at the highest level.
Simons, currently under PSG control, offers immense potential but comes with a complicated transfer situation due to interest from multiple top clubs.
Shift Focus to Other Priority Areas
A more strategic option would be for United to pause their pursuit of a winger and instead prioritize reinforcing the spine of the team.
That could include pushing for a marquee striker such as Joshua Zirkzee, Benjamin Sesko, or even Victor Osimhen, as well as targeting a central or defensive midfielder like Joao Neves or Manuel Ugarte.
This could also be a calculated move to pressure Brentford, signaling that United are willing to walk away if a compromise isn’t reached.
Financial Timing Could Be Key
Importantly, with the Premier League’s new financial year now in effect (starting July 1), clubs have more breathing room within the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
This opens up the possibility of more flexible deals, such as staggered payments or performance-based add-ons.
Additionally, United are working to offload players like Jadon Sancho, Mason Greenwood, and Casemiro, which could free up further funds.
Looking Ahead
The next 7–10 days are expected to be crucial. As transfer activity increases and financial conditions shift, United’s approach may evolve.
Whether Brentford soften their demands or United pivot to other targets, we’re likely to see decisive movement soon.
Although Bryan Mbeumo might not be the most high-profile name available, his proven ability in the Premier League, versatility across the front line, and calmness in the final third make him an ideal fit for Amorim’s system.
If United truly believe in his ability to deliver consistently, they may ultimately be compelled to meet Brentford’s price—or risk missing out on a valuable addition in a market where good value is hard to come by.
