Just days after Thomas Frank took over as Tottenham’s new manager, Spurs have made a bold move that could dramatically shift the summer transfer market.
The North London club has officially joined the race for Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo, potentially snatching him from under Manchester United’s nose.
United’s Initial Bid Rejected but Talks Continue
Manchester United, who’ve been eyeing Mbeumo as a major piece in their attacking rebuild, kicked things off with a £55 million bid.
Brentford, however, turned that down, holding out for a figure believed to be over £60 million.
Despite that, United remain in negotiations and are expected to return with an improved offer.
Mbeumo Had Eyes on Old Trafford—Until Now
Up until recently, Mbeumo seemed set on a move to Manchester.
He reportedly told United that he was excited to work under new boss Ruben Amorim and become a key part of his rebuild strategy.
The club, desperate to improve after scoring just 44 Premier League goals last season, had already landed striker Matheus Cunha from Wolves—and Mbeumo was the next step.
Thomas Frank’s Arrival at Spurs Changes the Game
But everything shifted once Thomas Frank was confirmed as Tottenham’s new head coach on Thursday.
Frank has deep ties to Mbeumo, having signed him as a teenager from Troyes and developing him into one of Brentford’s brightest stars.
That relationship now gives Spurs a real edge in the race for the 25-year-old forward.
Reuniting with Frank May Be Too Tempting to Resist
Sources suggest Mbeumo is now “intrigued” by the idea of reuniting with Frank.
The bond between them is strong—Frank spent seven years as Brentford’s manager and oversaw Mbeumo’s development from raw talent to Premier League star.
That history could sway the winger’s decision, especially as Spurs look to revamp their attack following a dismal 17th-place league finish.
Mbeumo’s 20-Goal Season Puts Him in Demand
Mbeumo’s stock has skyrocketed since Ivan Toney left Brentford.
He stepped up massively last season, banging in 20 Premier League goals—a full nine more than Tottenham’s top scorer, Brennan Johnson.
With that kind of output, it’s no surprise both clubs are scrambling to bring him in.
Spurs Also Watching Bournemouth’s Semenyo
Tottenham’s interest in Mbeumo isn’t their only move this summer.
They’re also said to be eyeing Antoine Semenyo of Bournemouth, who scored 11 goals in 37 appearances.
Spurs are clearly focused on adding depth and power to a goal-shy forward line.
Champions League Football Could Tip the Balance
Here’s where it gets tricky for United. While they might offer a higher weekly salary—Mbeumo is reportedly hoping for around £250,000-a-week—Tottenham can offer Champions League football, something United can’t match this season.
That, along with Frank’s presence, could be enough to pull Mbeumo to North London.
The Race Heats Up: United to Return with Another Offer
United aren’t backing down yet. A second bid is on the way, and they’re trying to meet both Brentford’s valuation and Mbeumo’s wage expectations.
But with Tottenham now in the mix and pulling on emotional connections, the outcome is far from certain.
What Happens Next?
With two of England’s biggest clubs now in direct competition, Mbeumo’s future is hanging in the balance.
Will it be Old Trafford and Amorim’s rebuild, or Spurs and a reunion with Thomas Frank in the Champions League? Either way, the next few weeks promise to be full of drama—and goals.