EXCLUSIVE: An Update on Manchester United’s Interest in Gyokeres and Mbeumo

Manchester United are taking a measured approach in their efforts to acquire Bryan Mbeumo and Viktor Gyokeres, with positive expectations that both transfers can still be achieved.

The addition of these two forwards would considerably boost United’s attacking prowess for the upcoming season. The club is optimistic about finalising the deals, especially as manager Ruben Amorim views the duo as vital for reinstating United’s status amongst the Premier League’s elite.

The situation surrounding Gyokeres has become notably intricate. Early reports suggested that United could secure him for approximately £58 million, and sources indicated that Amorim had urged the club to expedite the transfer.

However, Sporting CP has since reevaluated their stance and is demanding a higher transfer fee. In the meantime, Arsenal has entered the fray as they search for a new striker.

Arsenal has also been seriously weighing up a bid for Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, and should they decide to prioritise that transfer, United believe they will have a clearer path to Gyokeres, provided they engage in strategic negotiations.

Reports indicate that Amorim continues to hold a high regard for the striker he previously worked with in Portugal and has urged the club to do everything within their power to finalise the deal.

The market for centre-forwards has proven to be fraught with difficulties. Victor Osimhen was initially United’s prime target, but his personal demands were considered too high. The club subsequently shifted their focus to Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, seeing him as a competent value option at £30 million; however, he has opted to join Chelsea instead.

If they miss out on Gyokeres, United will need to explore other alternatives. Names such as Hugo Ekitike and Jean-Philippe Mateta have been on their radar, and potential targets like Ollie Watkins and Randal Kolo Muani are also under consideration if negotiations drag on.

Mbeumo has a preference for Old Trafford

The complications don’t end with the centre-forward position; United are also keen on signing Brentford’s Mbeumo.

United were quick off the mark in their pursuit of Mbeumo, but the situation became muddled last week when Tottenham emerged as potential suitors. The idea was to reunite him with former Brentford manager Thomas Frank, with discussions centering on a £70 million fee—Brentford’s ideal asking price.

The Red Devils are not willing to meet that valuation or engage in a bidding war.

It’s uncertain how serious Tottenham’s interest truly is. Despite the noise surrounding the potential move, United remains confident they will secure Mbeumo, with expectations that the situation will develop positively by the end of the month.

Sources suggest that Mbeumo has privately indicated that Old Trafford is his preferred destination earlier this month—echoing the sentiments of Matheus Cunha before his transfer from Wolves.

The release of the Premier League fixtures on Wednesday has intensified the urgency of United’s transfer ambitions. They kick off the season against Arsenal at Old Trafford, followed by early encounters with Manchester City and Chelsea.

This demanding schedule necessitates that the squad be prepared well in advance; internally, there is confidence that they will achieve this.

The club is also actively seeking new clubs for players no longer considered part of their long-term plans.

This includes attacking players such as Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, and Jadon Sancho.

Each case brings its own challenges, but Garnacho’s situation is proving particularly frustrating. He is viewed as the player most likely to generate a significant fee for reinvestment, yet so far, he has shown little interest in the proposals being presented.