Rio Ferdinand has warned Manchester United they could end up embarrassing themselves amid continued discussions with Brentford for Bryan Mbeumo.
This summer has already proven to be a challenging one for Manchester United, as they look to rebuild the club after a dismal season in the Premier League and a disappointing end to the campaign in the Europa League final.
Matheus Cunha was the first signing of the window for £62.5 million from Wolverhampton Wanderers, but there have been few first-team transfers since, both in and out of the club.
The never-ending saga of Bryan Mbeumo appears to be holding up deals for other players, as the club are focused on reaching a final agreement with Brentford, but the Bees appear to be changing their demands after every bid.
Other Premier League deals have been named as the reason for the transfer holdup, but a deal needs to be completed soon if Mbeumo is to be included in Rúben Amorim’s pre-season tour, along with Cunha and Diego Leon, who have also joined the club this summer.
Mbeumo could be the missing piece in United’s attack, especially if Joshua Zirkzee is to lead the line next season. Having two players who like to run ahead of the striker, Cunha and Mbeumo, could get the best out of Zirkzee.
Ferdinand issues Mbeumo transfer warning
Speaking on his YouTube Channel, Rio Ferdinand Presents, Rio Ferdinand has said that he is optimistic that the Mbeumo deal will be completed, but the time it’s taking is concerning.
“Man United need to find a way of meeting Brentford’s valuation. The proposal doesn’t seem to be enough for Brentford, but Man United need to get this done.
“It’s been in the news for far too long, to get to a situation to get to the end of the window, and it doesn’t happen, I think that will be an egg-on-the-face situation for Man United unless they go and get someone else.
“Who have they got waiting in the wings as an alternative? We haven’t heard any names that are close. I would be surprised if this deal doesn’t go through. United have allowed it to go public, and they are in a position now where they have to make a move to get it over the line.
“I will repeat myself: he fits the bill for me physically, he is dynamic, scores goals in the Premier League, knows the Premier League. Watch this space.”
How does Mbeumo affect Amad’s future?
Signing Mbuemo, who usually plays on the right of a front three, could mean Amad is forced to drop back to right wing back on a permanent basis. While he has shown he can play there, does it get the best out of the Ivorian?
Playing at wing back does give Amad more time on the ball, and more space to dribble at his full back before putting in a cross or getting a shot off, but it could reduce his goal output, which was crucial to United last season.
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Pre-season fixtures will be very telling, especially if Mbeumo hasn’t joined the club yet, because Amad is the only player in Amorim’s squad with a similar profile to the Cameroonian international, as a left-footed right winger.
Shea Lacey could make that step up into the first team after impressing on the post-season tour, but his struggle with injuries last season could see him start the season in the under-21s before stepping up later in the season.
Academy talent Bendito Mantato is another left-footed right winger in the youth teams, but many fans of the under-18s feel Mantato is better suited to playing as a wing back, due to his time spent at left back in Harry Amass’ absence.
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