The highly-anticipated transfer of Bryan Mbeumo to Manchester United has hit yet another roadblock—and this time, renowned transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has provided clarity that shifts the blame away from Old Trafford. In his latest update, Romano revealed that the delay is not entirely in Manchester United’s control, casting doubt over whether the move will even materialize before the summer transfer window slams shut.
Speaking in his exclusive Daily Briefing column, Romano emphasized that Brentford’s unpredictable stance is the main reason behind the impasse. “The deal is currently on hold because of Brentford,” he stated. “Man United have made their interest clear, but the club is waiting on Brentford to give a green light to formal negotiations. At the moment, it’s not in Man United’s hands.”
This revelation has frustrated fans and pundits alike, many of whom believed that Manchester United were simply dragging their feet. Instead, it appears Brentford’s strategy has involved shifting the goalposts repeatedly in terms of valuation and payment structure, making a deal complex and time-consuming.
Romano’s insight aligns with the narrative already voiced by former United captain Rio Ferdinand, who recently expressed public concern about how long the Mbeumo saga has dragged on. On his YouTube channel, Ferdinand warned that Manchester United risk public embarrassment if they allow this transfer saga to linger without resolution.
“It’s been in the news for far too long,” Ferdinand said bluntly. “If United get to the end of the window and still haven’t brought in Mbeumo—or anyone of similar caliber—it’s going to be an egg-on-the-face moment. The club needs to sort it out now.”
The 24-year-old Cameroon international has emerged as a top target for Rúben Amorim’s new-look Manchester United squad. Known for his pace, flair, and left-footed creativity, Mbeumo offers a consistent goal threat from the right flank—a profile United have sorely lacked in recent seasons.
Despite scoring nine goals and recording six assists last season in the Premier League, Mbeumo’s contribution often went under the radar due to Brentford’s modest standing. However, his importance to the London club is undeniable, especially during Ivan Toney’s suspension. Brentford are now demanding a premium fee that reflects just how vital he is to their plans.
Manchester United, on the other hand, have already spent big this window—securing Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5 million—and remain cautious about overspending again. Sources within the club indicate that United are willing to go high, but only to a point they consider realistic given Mbeumo’s contractual situation and overall market value.
This caution has only fueled fan frustration. Supporters argue that if United can pay over £70 million for players who didn’t perform, such as Antony, they should be able to complete the Mbeumo deal without hesitation. Social media has been flooded with messages urging the board to stop dithering and secure the versatile winger.
Adding to the pressure is the fact that United are entering a pivotal season under Amorim, whose tactical setup relies heavily on dynamic wide forwards. The Portuguese manager has earmarked Mbeumo as a crucial puzzle piece for his preferred 3-4-2-1 system, expecting the Brentford man to flank Cunha and Joshua Zirkzee.
But if the move collapses, United will be left scrambling. Their current wide options are thin. Amad Diallo, who showed promise last season, could be forced into an unnatural right wing-back role to accommodate Amorim’s system, which might stifle his development.
Meanwhile, young talents like Shea Lacey and Bendito Mantato, although exciting, lack the top-level experience required to carry a club of United’s magnitude through a grueling domestic and European campaign. This only underscores how important the Mbeumo deal is—not just for strengthening the squad, but also for shaping its tactical identity.
Romano’s update suggests that Manchester United’s negotiators remain active behind the scenes, but any breakthrough depends solely on Brentford’s willingness to engage meaningfully. “Talks can resume at any time, but right now, Brentford are not giving any green light,” Romano reiterated.
This lack of cooperation from Brentford may be strategic. They could be waiting for other clubs—perhaps abroad or elsewhere in the Premier League—to join the race and drive up Mbeumo’s price. Such a scenario would force United into a bidding war, something they are keen to avoid.
For Amorim, the uncertainty must be frustrating. After taking over from Erik ten Hag, the Portuguese tactician made it clear he wanted fast, decisive transfer activity to avoid a sluggish start to the season. Yet once again, United seem trapped in a familiar cycle of drawn-out negotiations and public criticism.
To make matters worse, reports suggest that Amorim has no fallback option if the Mbeumo deal collapses. While a few names have been floated, none carry the same profile, Premier League experience, or tactical fit as the Cameroonian winger.
This raises broader questions about United’s transfer structure under INEOS, who recently took over footballing operations. While their long-term vision has been praised, fans are demanding immediate results—and that includes landing targets early, not scrambling on deadline day.
Unless Brentford change their stance soon, Manchester United could find themselves with limited time and fewer options as the market enters its final stretch. And that, according to both Romano and Ferdinand, would be a damning indictment of the club’s planning.
In the meantime, all eyes are on Brentford. Will they finally open the door to negotiations? Or will United be forced to look elsewhere—and possibly regret missing out on a player who could transform their frontline?
For now, one thing is certain: the clock is ticking, and it’s not ticking in Manchester United’s favor.