Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo has revealed the Manchester United legend who was on the back of his first-ever football shirt.
Manchester United have been given the go-ahead to open negotiations with Brentford for Bryan Mbeumo, following the player’s decision to pursue a move to Old Trafford.
After a disappointing campaign last season, it became clear that United needed reinforcements in attack—and they’ve wasted no time addressing the issue in the transfer market.
On the opening day of the window, the club confirmed the signing of Matheus Cunha on a five-year deal, with the Brazilian expected to operate on the left side of Ruben Amorim’s front line.
But further reinforcements are still needed, and Bryan Mbeumo has emerged as one of the club’s top targets in recent weeks, according to multiple reports.
The Brentford forward enjoyed a standout season, netting 20 goals in the Premier League, and manager Thomas Frank has indicated he would be allowed to leave if the right offer comes in, with the player now making it clear that he favours United over the likes of Newcastle and Arsenal.
Mbeumo reveals United legend on back of first-ever shirt
It was earlier reported that Mbeumo was open to joining a project rather than focusing on the Champions League, and now a Brentford reporter has hinted that he supported United when he was growing up.
Jay Harris of The Athletic wrote on X: “I’m pretty certain Mbeumo supported Man Utd as a child which might partially explain why he wants to join them.”
This follows on from an interview several weeks ago, where Mbeumo revealed that his first-ever football shirt had United legend Cristiano Ronaldo as the name on the back.
Speaking to Pro Direct at the beginning of May, Mbeumo was asked what the first player name was on the back of his shirt as a kid. “I think it was Ronaldo, Cristiano Ronaldo,” he said.
Cunha is also said to be a supporter of the club, with both players rejecting other top sides to try and help turn things around at Old Trafford.
Cunha and Mbeumo really want to join United
It is clear that United have already impressed Mbeumo with the project on offer. That is why he has made it obvious so soon in the window that he wants the move.
Now, the main thing left for the Reds is to start negotiations with Brentford, who are reportedly looking for around £50 million to let go of their star man.
Read More: Manchester United ‘to make a move’ for top class Premier League striker after £15m price drop
That amount isn’t surprising for the level of player United would be receiving, although it would be interesting if they can split the deal to include add-ons, rather than paying everything upfront.
In the end, United will want to see Cunha and Mbeumo turn up on the first day of pre-season. Not only are they huge upgrades on the current options at the club, but they both really want to be there too.
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