Manchester United have moved closer to a successful conclusion in their prolonged pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo as Brentford near a swoop for his replacement. The Red Devils have been locked in talks to sign Mbeumo for the past month, failing with two bids, the second of which was worth £55million plus £7.5m in add-ons.
Brentford are holding firm on their valuation of the 25-year-old, valuing him higher than the £62.5m United paid to recruit Matheus Cunha from Wolves. It has led to an impasse, despite Mbeumo’s desire to complete a switch, but the Bees could be about to soften their stance after a signing of their own.
According to the Daily Mail, Brentford have submitted a £35m offer for Ipswich Town winger Omari Hutchinson.
The report adds that the figure should trigger the release clause in Hutchinson’s contract at Portman Road, paving the way for a straightforward deal.
Previous reports claim that Brentford view the 21-year-old as their top target to replace Mbeumo, should he depart for Manchester.
Therefore, an official approach may suggest that United are edging closer towards finally getting their man ahead of their pre-season tour of the United States.
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Of course, Hutchinson’s impending arrival at the Gtech Community Stadium does not confirm that Mbeumo will leave in the coming days or weeks.
New Brentford boss Keith Andrews will be keen to strengthen the squad he inherited from Thomas Frank ahead of a daunting task to follow in the Dane’s footsteps.
Hutchinson could also be viewed as a replacement for Yoane Wissa, who is attracting interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest, among other clubs.
United may need Mbeumo to play his part as they seek a compromise over his transfer fee. The Cameroon international has returned to pre-season training.
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The Old Trafford giants are believed to have the budget to sign Mbeumo, whose arrival would see their spending surpass £125m.
However, it is no surprise that they are attempting to reserve as much cash as possible, given Ruben Amorim will rely on player sales for any further additions.
Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia are all training away from Amorim’s main group as United attempt to orchestrate exits.
But there is currently little sign that any departure is imminent due to their high salaries and low stocks.