Bryan Mbeumo hasn’t been at Manchester United long, but he’s already trying to make an impact off the pitch as well as on it.
The £71million forward from Brentford is reportedly attempting to persuade his Cameroon teammate, Carlos Baleba, to consider a move to Old Trafford, according to The Sun.
Mbeumo sees the 21-year-old Brighton midfielder as a “little brother” and has been speaking to him during the international break, highlighting the potential of joining Manchester United.
Despite United’s interest last summer, Brighton remained firm on their £100million-plus valuation for Baleba.
Growing Friendship on International Duty
The bond between Mbeumo and Baleba has strengthened during their time together with the Cameroon national team.
The pair were seen supporting each other after Cameroon’s surprising loss to Cape Verde in September, with Mbeumo comforting Baleba and even shielding him from a pitch invasion.
This closeness has turned into Mbeumo acting as a mentor, offering guidance and encouragement while also hinting at the opportunities that could come with a switch to United.
Brighton’s Rising Star Continues to Impress
Baleba has been one of the Premier League’s standout young talents.
Signed from Lille for just £23million, he has already more than tripled his value thanks to an exceptional season.
Brighton initially brought him in to replace Moises Caicedo, who had been sold to Chelsea for £73million, and Baleba’s performances have only strengthened the club’s reputation for smart business in the transfer market.
However, this season has started slightly rocky for Baleba, with manager Fabian Hurzeler admitting that the reported interest from United might have been a distraction.
Baleba’s Development Remains a Priority
Hurzeler explained the delicate balance required when a young player attracts attention from a major club.
“For sure, when a young boy reads that there’s interest from Manchester United with a big offer, it might affect him deeply, even if he’s not saying,” he said.
The Brighton manager added that his focus is on supporting players through challenging moments as well as celebrating their successes. “We talk a lot, for example, about Carlos.
He had an incredible development last season… it is really important to keep being with him, keep pushing him, keep supporting him,” Hurzeler said.
Road to the World Cup and Upcoming Fixtures
Cameroon now faces a play-off to secure a spot in the World Cup after finishing second in their group behind Cape Verde.
Mbeumo will be key to their chances, while Baleba will continue to impress with Brighton in the Premier League, facing Newcastle before reuniting with his “big brother” at Old Trafford next week.
For Manchester United fans, Mbeumo’s influence off the field could hint at bigger transfer ambitions, and his performances on the pitch could endear him even further during the high-stakes clash against Liverpool this Sunday.