Manchester United will explore a deal for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo after missing out on Liam Delap and have been boosted by Bruno Fernandes rejecting a move to the Saudi Pro League.
Ruben Amorim had said he thought Fernandes would stay despite interest from Al-Hilal. Provided the playmaker does not receive an offer from a leading European club that he wants to pursue, that settles the captain’s future.
Amorim is trying to strengthen his squad and after United confirmed an agreement to sign Matheus Cunha from Wolves the head coach’s focus is on a forward who can offer a reliable source of goals. Mbeumo scored 20 times in 38 Premier League appearances in the most recent season. Fernandes and Amad Diallo led the way for United with eight each.
Delap chose Chelsea ahead of clubs including United and his £30m transfer from Ipswich is close to being confirmed. United will face competition for Mbeumo, who turns 26 shortly before the start of next season. The Cameroon international played a significant part, with his forward partner Yoane Wissa, in helping Brentford to finish 10th last month.
United will reacquire Jadon Sancho at the end of this month after Chelsea chose to pay £5m to send him back to Old Trafford. The forward’s loan included an obligation to buy for £25m, with that penalty clause built in.
