It’s not always the manager or the paycheck that sways a footballer’s next move—sometimes, it’s a word from a trusted friend.
In the case of Bryan Mbeumo, a key push toward Manchester United seems to be coming from someone he knows well: his fellow Cameroon international and United goalkeeper, Andre Onana.
While both Manchester United and Tottenham are in the race to sign the Brentford star, Mbeumo appears to be leaning toward the Red Devils—largely thanks to Onana’s encouragement behind the scenes.
United Confident Despite Spurs’ Newfound Interest
Reports suggest that Manchester United remain “confident” about landing Mbeumo this summer, even after Tottenham entered the picture with fresh energy following the appointment of Thomas Frank as their new manager.
United already tested the waters with a £55 million bid for the winger, which Brentford turned down.
Still, the club is expected to return with another offer closer to the £60 million mark.
Despite the rejection and Spurs’ approach, Mbeumo’s preference is reportedly still with Manchester United.
Thomas Frank’s Role: Sentimental, But Not Convincing?
Tottenham’s new head coach, Thomas Frank, isn’t just another manager in Mbeumo’s career—he’s the one who brought the forward to England as a teenager and helped shape him into one of the Premier League’s most promising attackers.
It’s no surprise then that Mbeumo had nothing but praise for Frank when asked recently.
Speaking at the Canadian Grand Prix during the F1 gridwalk, Mbeumo said that Frank “trusted [him] from the start” and helped him grow “as a human and a player.”
He added that Frank will need some time to adjust to the Champions League demands, but believes the Dane will succeed at Spurs.
Still, Mbeumo’s Heart Seems Set on United
Despite the public compliments toward Frank, those close to the situation claim Mbeumo has told confidants that his true desire is to join Manchester United—not Tottenham.
That loyalty could be rooted in a mix of Onana’s persuasion and the allure of a fresh challenge at Old Trafford.
Even with the chance to reunite with Frank and play Champions League football at Spurs, Mbeumo reportedly sees United as the club he wants to represent next.
A Proven Talent Ready for the Next Step
Mbeumo’s stats speak for themselves. Since joining Brentford from Troyes for just £5.8 million, the 25-year-old has tallied 70 goals in 242 appearances, with 42 of those coming in the Premier League.
Last season alone, he scored 20 goals and registered 8 assists—his best campaign yet, especially after Ivan Toney’s departure left him to lead the line.
That kind of output could be exactly what Manchester United need.
Last season, under Ruben Amorim, United managed only 44 goals in the league—the second lowest tally among clubs that weren’t relegated.
Mbeumo could offer a serious boost to a front line in need of firepower.
United’s Attack Starting to Take Shape
The Red Devils are already making moves to overhaul their attack.
They’ve secured Matheus Cunha from Wolves in a £62.5 million deal and are now eyeing Mbeumo to continue bolstering their front three.
With the club aiming to become more clinical in the final third, bringing in a proven Premier League attacker like Mbeumo—who already has chemistry with Onana—might be the kind of transfer that ticks multiple boxes for United.
