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Manchester United have reportedly identified Antoine Semenyo of Bournemouth and Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze as alternative targets if they fail to strike an agreement with Brentford over a fee for Bryan Mbeumo.
Mbeumo has become one of the most in-demand players of the summer as the transfer window gathers pace.
The Cameroonian enjoyed a breakout 2024/25 season, plundering a career-high 20 Premier League goals. Only Mohamed Salah, Erling Haaland and Alexander Isak netted more times than the Brentford man.
Since joining the Bees from Troyes in 2019, Mbeumo has been a quietly consistent presence for the side but in the just-concluded campaign, he truly put himself on the map with his impressive performances and numbers. It was only a matter of time until clubs came calling.
United had an opening bid worth a total £55m rejected by Brentford, who are holding out for more. The two clubs remain in talks to try and find a compromise. Mbeumo has already chosen United and is keen on becoming the latest addition to Ruben Amorim’s ranks.
But, in recent hours, it has emerged that Tottenham Hotspur – emboldened by the managerial appointment of Thomas Frank, who left Brentford for North London – have entered the fray for Mbeumo and are looking to hijack United’s deal for the forward.
United are still believed to be in pole position even as Tottenham circle but a recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that the Red Devils will not hesitate to walk away from negotiations if Brentford do not demonstrate a willingness to compromise on their valuation.
This has now been confirmed by ESPN, who relay that United CEO Omar Berrada has a price in mind for Mbeumo and the club will not exceed it.
If a transfer fails to get over the line, United will turn their attention elsewhere.
ESPN state, “[United] want Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford but, according to sources, will refuse to pay beyond Berrada’s predetermined ‘price point.’”
“Other options include Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo and Eberechi Eze at Crystal Palace.”
Berrada and his team are reportedly determined to correct the transfer missteps of recent years, when United were often lured into overpaying for players who ultimately failed to justify their hefty price tags after arriving at Old Trafford.
Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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