Mbeumo Seals Old Trafford Move After Amorim’s Persuasive Pitch

Cameroonian Star Reveals Club Ambitions Drove Transfer Decision

New Manchester United signing Bryan Mbeumo has lifted the lid on the crucial private discussions with manager Ruben Amorim that ultimately swayed his decision to join the Red Devils, turning down alternative offers.

United Secure Mbeumo Signing

Following their acquisition of Matheus Cunha from Wolves, Manchester United swiftly shifted their focus to securing the services of Bryan Mbeumo. Initial personal terms were agreed upon swiftly, paving the way for United’s first offer, submitted at the beginning of June, which Brentford promptly rejected.

An improved bid from United, matching the valuation placed on Cunha, was expected to be accepted. However, in a surprising turn, Brentford again turned down the offer. Tensions rose as Brentford appeared to continually adjust their valuation demands, leading United to threaten withdrawing from negotiations, though discussions persisted.

Just over a week ago, United submitted a third and final offer amounting to £71 million. Facing pressure from Mbeumo, who had clearly expressed his desire for a move to Old Trafford, Brentford finally sanctioned the Cameroonian’s transfer.

Mbeumo was officially unveiled and joined the squad for their pre-season tour of the United States. He was not involved in the recent 2-1 victory over West Ham as he works to catch up on his fitness preparations.

Mbeumo Discusses Transfer Journey

Speaking to reporters, the 25-year-old confirmed his attraction to Manchester United stemmed from the club’s immense stature and rich history. However, it was Amorim’s compelling vision for the club that proved decisive.

“I trust my people and I was convinced that it was going to happen. I always trust my people around me. The transfer window can be long, it can be short, so you have be patient and just try to keep thinking positively about things,” Mbeumo stated, as quoted by the Daily Mail.

“I was obviously on my holidays so I just wanted to think about resting mentally and physically. If it was going to happen, it was going to happen. I think I’m someone who likes a challenge. There is a very good project in Manchester, and I wanted to be part of it.”

He added, “You want to play on the greatest stages in the world and Old Trafford is one of them. So being able to play there every two weeks is just big. Of course, I spoke to some other managers because I wanted to hear their projects, but the Manchester United one was very good for me.”

Mbeumo elaborated on his conversations with Amorim: “I’ve spoken with Ruben. It was a very friendly conversation and a constructive one. He explained his project to me, what he wanted to do, and I really clicked with that. He said ‘we are people who like winning and we want to be the best team’. Of course, that’s what we will try to do.”

Mbeumo Clarifies Preferred Role

Mbeumo is anticipated to operate in one of the two advanced midfield roles within Amorim’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation, a position he is comfortable with.

While primarily featuring as a winger at Brentford, Mbeumo emphasized his adaptability and willingness to play in any role designated by the manager.

“I think now, in football, you have to be adaptable and be able to play in a few other positions than what you’d say is your best,” he explained.

“Obviously I’ve played as a winger mainly at Brentford, but I don’t have one specific position where I feel I can do the best. With Brentford, I used to also play as a No 10 in the pocket or even as a No 9. I can play all those positions. Whatever position the gaffer wants to put me out, I will play there.”

“I always want to be better than I was yesterday. I’m very demanding of myself and I always try to do the best. I don’t like to put limits on myself as well.”

Mbeumo registered a career-best 20 Premier League goals last season, surpassing all but Mohamed Salah, Erling Haaland, and Alexander Isak in the scoring charts. He also contributed seven assists.

In the 2023-24 Premier League season, forwards operating in central attacking midfield roles averaged a combined 0.55 goals and 0.3 assists per 90 minutes (data from FBref). This highlights the potential impact Mbeumo could have in his new role.