Bryan Mbeumo has already told Ruben Amorim what he wants to hear before Man Utd transfer

In early January, just weeks into his tenure, Amorim publicly stated that the team was “starving for leaders” during a press conference.

Unlike his predecessor Erik ten Hag—whose coaching staff privately expressed similar concerns last May, according to The Guardian—Amorim chose to voice the issue openly.

Amorim also challenged Harry Maguire to improve in that area, saying “he has to improve as a leader”. The manager clarified, “he is a leader,” but “he has to improve that part.”

It will go down well with Amorim that Bryan Mbeumo has previously spoken about being just that. “I feel like a leader in the team,” he told the Telegraph in October.

“Everybody needs to take responsibility, but I have been at the club for five years now. At some point, you need to be a leader.

Alluding to Ivan Toney having left west London to join Saudi Pro League team Al-Ahli, Mbeumo said: “I don’t feel any pressure. At the end of the day, I know what I need to do.

“Maybe I have more expectations from the fans or the people outside the pitch, but if you want to reach the steps you want to, you need to embrace this.”

On the issue of personal development, he said: “I don’t want to set limits on myself. I think I can always go higher. I want to be the best at what I do, every time.”

Man United remain confident of signing the Cameroon international as discussions continue with Brentford over a deal.

Brentford have turned down two bids, both falling short of the £60m-plus valuation they are holding out for, while United seek a compromise.