Sometimes all it takes is a little encouragement from someone you trust.
For Bryan Mbeumo, that someone happens to be his international teammate — and Manchester United goalkeeper — André Onana.
While both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are vying for the Brentford star’s signature, it seems Onana’s influence might be quietly tipping the scales in United’s favor.
Despite a growing tug-of-war between the two Premier League giants, sources suggest Mbeumo is leaning toward a move to Old Trafford, with Onana playing an active role in persuading him behind the scenes.
Manchester United Stay Confident Despite Tottenham’s Push
Reports continue to indicate that Manchester United remain “confident” of sealing a deal for Mbeumo, even though Brentford already rejected their £55 million bid.
The club still values him at around £60 million.
Their optimism hasn’t wavered, even after Tottenham entered the scene and formally opened talks with Brentford last week.
With newly appointed Spurs boss Thomas Frank now at the helm, Mbeumo’s decision is getting even more attention.
A Reunion With Thomas Frank Is Tempting — But Not a Done Deal
Tottenham’s case isn’t weak. Frank, who just signed a three-year deal with the North London club, played a pivotal role in Mbeumo’s early career.
He brought him to Brentford as a teenager from Troyes and helped turn him into one of the league’s most exciting wide players.
Mbeumo spoke highly of Frank recently during an interview at the Canadian Grand Prix, calling him a mentor both on and off the pitch. “He trusted me from the beginning.
He made me better as a person and a player,” Mbeumo said.
He even backed Frank to thrive at Tottenham, praising his leadership and football IQ: “He knows how to build a team, he’s very smart, and I think he’ll do really well.”
Still, Mbeumo’s Heart May Be Set on United
Despite all the kind words for Frank, it appears Mbeumo has privately made up his mind.
According to the Manchester Evening News, the 25-year-old has told close friends and confidants that Manchester United is the only move he wants this summer.
That puts United in a strong position, even though Spurs can offer something United can’t at the moment — Champions League football.
Why Mbeumo Is in Such High Demand
The Cameroon international is coming off his best season yet.
With Ivan Toney out of the picture, Mbeumo stepped up in a big way — bagging 20 goals and 8 assists in the Premier League alone last season.
Since joining Brentford for just £5.8 million, he’s racked up 70 goals in 242 matches, with 42 of those in the Premier League.
At 25, he’s entering his prime, and his numbers speak for themselves.
He’s exactly the kind of forward United need to reinvigorate a misfiring attack.
United’s Attack Needs a Boost — And Fast
Manchester United’s need for attacking reinforcements is no secret.
Last season, they only managed to score 44 goals in the league — the second-lowest tally of any non-relegated side. That’s a stat they’re desperate to improve.
They’ve already made a statement by signing Matheus Cunha from Wolves in a £62.5 million deal.
But adding Mbeumo to the mix could be a game-changer — someone with proven Premier League output who also brings versatility and pace to the front line.
What Happens Next?
With both clubs still in the race and Brentford holding out for their asking price, things are bound to heat up in the coming weeks.
But unless Spurs can sway Mbeumo emotionally or financially, it seems Manchester United — and André Onana — may have already won the most important battle: his heart.
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