Manchester United’s first port of call in the summer window will be strengthening a poor attack, which has only outscored five teams this Premier League season.
Most recent reports have stated that the club is close to a deal for versatile attacking star Matheus Cunha of Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Brazilian mainly excels as an attacking midfielder, which means a striker is what the Red Devils will target next with the likes of Liam Delap, Victor Osimhen, and Viktor Gyokeres among the top targets.
But in case an out-and-out striker cannot be recruited, the Old Trafford side are expected to target Bryan Mbeumo of Brentford. The Cameroonian can also play as a No 10 and even up front.
Newcastle in pole position
He has 18 goals and eight assists this season and as per Teamtalk, the Bees ace is intrigued by the possibility of a move to the Theatre of Dreams.
But Newcastle are reportedly in pole position but could struggle to afford the Cameroon international’s £60 million price tag due to their PSR situation, which could hand United the advantage they need.
“Newcastle United are leading Manchester United in the race for Bryan Mbeumo, TEAMtalk understands.Sources have told TEAMtalk that Mbeumo is intrigued by the prospect of joining Old Trafford, given Man Utd’s global stature and Amorim’s attacking philosophy.
“However, TEAMtalk understands that Newcastle are in pole position for the forward. Newcastle have told Mbeumo their plans, and sources have suggested that the Magpies are currently in the driving seat for a deal.
“However, Man Utd’s interest in the forward is seen as a threat that could hinder Newcastle’s pursuit, especially as they navigate Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).”
CaughtOffside have claimed United are set to submit their opening offer while the Magpies are hoping for a discount, which Thomas Frank’s side are unlikely to entertain.
United preparing opening offer
“Manchester United are keen on the Brentford star to bolster their attacking lineup, with the Red Devils’ management reportedly preparing an opening bid for Mbeumo.
“Although Newcastle United has identified Mbeumo as their ‘ideal target’, the £60–65 million price tag could complicate the club’s transfer plans. Given that Brentford has a contract with the player until 2026, with an option to extend it for an additional year, the bargaining process is expected to be challenging.”
This saga does not look like it will end anytime soon and it will be interesting to see if United go ahead with signing two versatile attackers instead of recruiting a ruthless striker.
Maybe Europa League victory could alter the club’s plans. That is what Amorim will also be hoping for.
Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
