Brentford Chief Breaks Silence on Bryan Mbeumo's Manchester United Move: "I Understand"

Phil Giles, Brentford's director of football, has expressed significant skepticism regarding Bryan Mbeumo's potential transfer to Manchester United.

The Cameroon winger has been at the center of extensive transfer rumors throughout the summer window. Manchester United are believed to have submitted several unsuccessful offers for Mbeumo, with Brentford reportedly maintaining their asking price of over £62.5 million ($85.1 million).

While recent reports suggested a "breakthrough" in transfer talks had occurred last week, Giles maintained that "not so much" advancement has actually taken place.

"It's entirely possible he remains a Brentford player for the upcoming season if we decide he should stay," Giles explained to BBC Sport. "Every club would say the same thing. If the offer isn't suitable, why would we accept it? He's undoubtedly among our finest players, possibly our very best, and we require our top talent. There's nothing wrong with retaining your star players."

Brentford's transfer director also provided insight into Mbeumo's position. "There's substantial interest in Bryan," Giles informed Sky Sports News. "His preferred destination has been widely reported," alluding to claims that Mbeumo would choose United over other interested parties like Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.

"He delivered an exceptional campaign," Giles added, "and we anticipated clubs would pursue him. From my understanding, he's also content to remain at Brentford for another season if necessary."

Brentford's new manager Keith Andrews has already seen the departure of his predecessor Thomas Frank, first-choice keeper Mark Flekken, and may also lose club captain Christian Nørgaard. Predictably, the former set-piece specialist acknowledged that the "perfect situation" would involve retaining Mbeumo.

"I desire the most gifted players at the club," he stated. "I fully comprehend how football and this organization operate regarding transfers, but fundamentally, I want our strongest squad possible."