Bryan Mbeumo Breaks Silence on Shock Move to Struggling Manchester United

Bryan Mbeumo during his Man United unveiling.

Bryan Mbeumo Breaks Silence on Shock Move to Struggling Manchester United

Abigael Wafula 06:00 - 22.07.2025

Despite Manchester United's recent struggles, Bryan Mbeumo says joining his boyhood dream club was an opportunity he could not turn down.

Bryan Mbeumo has completed his move from Brentford to Manchester United for an initial £65 million, declaring the Red Devils his ‘dream club.’

The 25-year-old winger has signed a five-year contract, with an option for an additional year. This transfer marks manager Ruben Amorim's third summer signing, following Matheus Cunha and Diego Leon.

The move concludes a seven-week pursuit of the Cameroon international, one of the summer's most protracted transfer sagas.

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Manchester United's third bid, comprising a £65 million base fee and £6 million in add-ons, was finally accepted last week.

Bryan Mbeumo: I Had to Seize the Opportunity

Image source: B/R Football

Manchester United's initial bid for Bryan Mbeumo, totalling £55 million, was submitted in early June. A second offer of £62.5 million was also rejected before the two clubs finally reached an agreement.

Since joining Brentford from Troyes in 2019, Bryan Mbeumo has tallied 70 goals and 51 assists in 242 appearances. Last season, he achieved career highs with 20 goals and seven assists in the Premier League.

"The moment I knew joining Manchester United was a possibility, I had to seize it. This is the club of my dreams, the team I supported growing up," Mbeumo stated as quoted by BBC Sport.

"I constantly strive to improve. I'm confident I have the drive and character to elevate my game here, learning from Ruben Amorim and playing alongside world-class talent.

“Everyone has spoken highly of the environment being built here and the exciting future plans. This is a massive club with an incredible stadium and amazing fans. We're all determined to compete for the top trophies."

On his part, Jason Wilcox, Manchester United's director of football, praised Bryan Mbeumo’s ‘exceptional’ goals and assists record, highlighting his consistent performance as one of England's most productive players over the past three seasons.

Wilcox emphasised that Mbeumo's belief in the club's project made him a perfect fit for Manchester United's developing culture.

Mbeumo's transfer sets a new record for Brentford's biggest sale, surpassing the £40 million Al-Ahli paid for Ivan Toney in August 2024.

Bryan Mbeumo, who will wear the number 19 shirt, is expected to join Manchester United's squad for their pre-season tour of the United States on Tuesday.

Bryan Mbeumo at His Peak?

Bryan Mbeumo.
Bryan Mbeumo Photo: Imago

Last season, Bryan Mbeumo achieved career-best Premier League statistics across various attacking metrics, including goals, assists, chances created, and touches in the opposition box.

According to the BBC, his shot conversion rate of 23.53% was surpassed only by Liverpool's Mohamed Salah and Newcastle United's Alexander Isak.

Beyond his attacking prowess, Bryan Mbeumo's defensive contributions are noteworthy. He ranked third in the Premier League for ball recoveries in the opposition's third, with 32.

His ability to carry the ball over five meters directly leading to a goal was unmatched in the league last season, with nine such instances.

Lengthy Negotiations Secure Key Signing for Manchester United

Bryan Mbeumo
Bryan Mbeumo will add firepower to Man United's attack. Bryan Mbeumo's Manchester United move could hinge on Juventus (Credit: Imago)

The negotiations for Bryan Mbeumo were complex. Manchester United perceived that Brentford's asking price fluctuated, prolonging the discussions.

Brentford reportedly preferred a transfer to Tottenham or Newcastle, anticipating a higher fee. Brentford believed Tottenham held a strong position due to their new manager, former Brentford boss Thomas Frank, being aware of their valuation, which significantly exceeded United's initial offers.

At one point, with Manchester United hesitant to meet Brentford's £70 million plus £7 million in add-ons demand, Brentford suggested Mbeumo might consider lowering his demands. Ultimately, an agreement was reached.

This signing is crucial for Manchester United, especially considering reported interest from Tottenham, Newcastle, Arsenal, and Chelsea.

Securing Mbeumo, despite finishing 15th last season and lacking Champions League football, is a significant achievement for technical director Jason Wilcox and his team.