Andre Onana is reportedly playing a behind-the-scenes role in Manchester United’s pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo, encouraging his fellow Cameroon international to reject Tottenham’s interest and join him at Old Trafford.
Mbeumo has emerged as a top target for United this summer as they look to sharpen their attacking options, having already secured Matheus Cunha to bolster their creative ranks.
The Brentford forward is coming off a standout season, delivering 20 goals and seven assists to help his side secure a mid-table finish.
United’s initial bid was turned down, but talks are ongoing as they aim to strike a deal, while Spurs continue to push for his signature following the arrival of Thomas Frank.
Despite the competition, Mbeumo is believed to prefer a move to United, and Onana’s influence could prove decisive in the final stages of negotiations.
The goalkeeper, who had a challenging second season under Ruben Amorim, is expected to remain at the club and is actively involved in trying to bring Mbeumo on board.
Brentford, meanwhile, are holding firm on their valuation, using Cunha’s recent transfer as a benchmark, even though Mbeumo is entering the final year of his contract.
‘It’s a bit new for me, I would say, but that can be the life of a footballer,’ Mbeumo told Sky Sports when asked for his reaction to the incessant rumours surrounding his future.
‘You need to accept it.’
Though Brentford missed out on European football, Mbeumo is pleased with how the club’s season panned out.
‘It’s been my best season so far in the Premier League and, even collectively, we did play very good games,’ he added.
‘I think we’ve been unlucky in chasing the European spot, but it has been a fantastic season.’
Newly appointed Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has reportedly encouraged club chairman Daniel Levy to do everything to secure the signing of Mbeumo.
And while Mbeumo refused to be drawn on speculation that he could be reunited with Frank at Spurs, he wished his former manager all the best.
‘He’s done so much for me. He’s trusted me from the start and I think he developed the team so well, he developed me as a human and a player so much as well,’ Mbeumo explained.
‘I can only wish him all the best and I’m sure he’s going to do well.
‘He knows everything. He’s really smart, he knows the way he wants to bring the team and how he wants to play. I think he has been fantastic for Brentford.’
