Manchester United have submitted a third offer for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, which BBC Sport reports could reach £70 million.
The bid includes an upfront payment of £65 million, with an additional £5 million in potential add-ons. As of now, Brentford have yet to issue a response.
United remain optimistic about securing the Cameroon international and are eager to finalize the deal ahead of their pre-season tour of the United States, where they are scheduled to play three matches.
The club hopes Mbeumo can join up with manager Ruben Amorim’s squad before they depart for Chicago on Tuesday.
While recent transfer speculation has linked United with Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson and Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez, insiders maintain that Mbeumo has always been the top target at Old Trafford.
The aim is to have him integrated into Amorim’s tactical plans during their 13-day training stint in the US.
The 25-year-old forward had a standout campaign last season, netting 20 goals in the Premier League. His performances have attracted interest from several top-flight sides, including Tottenham Hotspur, who are now managed by former Brentford boss Thomas Frank. However, Mbeumo has expressed a strong desire to join United.
Brentford could face further upheaval in attack, with striker Yoane Wissa also drawing attention, this time from Newcastle United.
Manager Ruben Amorim had frequently voiced his frustration last season over United’s inefficiency in front of goal. Their tally of just 44 Premier League goals marked their lowest scoring return since the 1973-74 season, when the club was relegated.
This summer, United have already strengthened their squad with the signings of Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha and Spanish defender Diego Leon.
If Mbeumo’s deal goes through, Amorim is expected to deploy Cunha in one of the two inside forward roles behind a central striker in his preferred system.
As a result, captain Bruno Fernandes could be moved into a deeper midfield position.
The addition of Mbeumo would also further reduce the likelihood of a return to the first team for out-of-favour attackers Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, and Antony.
Manchester United will kick off their Premier League campaign at home against Arsenal on August 17.
The Red Devils have failed to register a win against the Gunners in their last two league seasons, with Arsenal securing a 2-0 home win and earning a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford during the previous campaign.