The Cameroonian attacker has been at the center of extended negotiations between Brentford and United, having made a move to Old Trafford his top priority since early June. ..Continue Reading
Talks have reportedly advanced, with United submitting a third offer worth £70 million including add-ons on Thursday, July 17.
If Brentford accept the bid—which matches their long-standing valuation—Mbeumo will become Ruben Amorim’s second signing of the summer.
He’s likely to slot into the right-wing role, though not wearing the iconic number 7 shirt often associated with United legends.
Matheus Cunha was the first player through the door this summer, arriving from Wolves in a £62.5 million deal.
The Brazilian has taken over the number 10 shirt, previously worn by Rashford, who is now on the transfer list and seeking a new club.
Mbeumo is expected to wear his favored number 19 jersey, which he’s donned at Brentford, Troyes, and with the Cameroon national team—currently unassigned at United.
The last player to wear number 19 was Raphael Varane, who departed Old Trafford last summer; Rashford also wore it early in his career.
Mbeumo had a standout season for Brentford, scoring 20 goals in the Premier League, and will aim to replicate that form under Amorim’s leadership.
According to Sports Mole, he prefers the number 19 shirt over a more high-profile number to avoid unnecessary pressure.
United’s number 7 shirt has a rich legacy, worn by icons like George Best, David Beckham, and Cristiano Ronaldo. Mason Mount currently holds that number, which may have been a consideration for Mbeumo had it been available.
Mbeumo, who reportedly grew up supporting Manchester United, once shared that the first football shirt he ever owned featured Ronaldo’s name on the back.
Now, he’ll be expected to deliver performances reminiscent of the Portuguese star’s legendary spell at Old Trafford.
