Manchester United Sets Firm Price Ceiling for Bryan Mbeumo Transfer Amid Ransom Fears
Manchester United's pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo has hit a roadblock as they refuse to exceed their valuation of the Brentford striker, according to recent reports.
United's sole major signing this summer window continues to be Matheus Cunha following the activation of the Brazilian's release clause last month—young prospects Diego León and Enzo Kana-Biyik have also joined, though the latter was immediately sent on loan to INEOS-affiliated Lausanne-Sport.
Mbeumo, who netted 20 Premier League strikes during the 2024–25 campaign, expressed his desire to join United after the season concluded, yet the two clubs have failed to reach an agreement on a transfer.
The Guardian reports that co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and newly appointed sporting director Jason Wilcox anticipated at the end of June that a £65 million ($87.1 million) offer would be sufficient. Brentford allegedly "suggested privately" that a medical examination was "anticipated soon".
The article states that Ratcliffe is "determined not to be forced into spending more" than £65 million. He and Wilcox, who assumed the role left vacant by Dan Ashworth last December after initially being named technical director, "refuse to be exploited" and prefer a "cautious" strategy.
What this means for United's chase of Mbeumo remains uncertain. The Guardian indicates that Brentford's asking price for the player is "nearer to" £70 million ($93.8 million). Previous reports have suggested it could be even higher, potentially reaching £75 million ($100.5 million).
The Red Devils are eager to secure Mbeumo before their pre-season tour of the United States begins next week, with their opening summer friendly scheduled in Sweden this weekend. The Cameroon forward hoped for resolution before Brentford commenced pre-season training, avoiding uncertainty about his future as preparations began. This timeline has already elapsed in recent days.
United have had two bids rejected by Brentford thus far, with the latest worth £62.5 million ($83.7 million), matching the fee paid for Cunha.