Manchester United are said to be a few million pounds away from Brentford's demand as negotiations on Bryan Mbeumo's deal continue. Man United have signed Matheus Cunha from Wolves and are looking to add more attacking power.
The Cameroonian international had an impressive season with 20 goals in 38 Premier League games. In fact, Mbeumo are only behind Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak and Erling Haaland in terms of goals scored.
The "Red Devils" have been rejected by Brentford for two offers, and Athletic reported that the gap between the two clubs is significant. The report said that negotiations are still ongoing, but there has been no significant progress.
It is known that Man United's fixed fee of £55 million plus £7.5 million in additional fees is lower than the £65 million that Brentford wants. It is also reported that The Bees wanted to receive the entire amount from the start.
The latest development comes after Cameroon's assistant coach, Ashu Cyprian Besong, revealed that Mbeumo was disappointed by the current situation.
"He's clearly frustrated because it's been going on for too long. But he is a professional player and has foreseen these things. I spoke to him about a week ago and he was very calm with everything going on. But of course, he told Brentford that he wanted to go to Man United.
Mbeumo just wants the two clubs to reach an agreement, because he is very grateful for the opportunity that Brentford has given him in his career" - Besong said.
Brentford are also said to have approached Omari Hutchinson as a potential replacement for Mbeumo. Hutchinson made a strong impression for Ipswich in the Premier League last season and won the European U21 Championship with England U21.
The 21-year-old is one of the options Brentford are considering. The Bees have signed five big signings this summer, including a loan deal with Michael Kayode from Fiorentina.
The Bees have also signed Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher to replace Mark Flekken. Meanwhile, Romelle Donovan joined from Birmingham, Antoni Milambo moved from Feyenoord and Jordan Henderson was a free agent.
With the departure of Flekken, Brentford captain Christian Norgaard was sold to Arsenal for around £15 million. Veteran defender Ben Mee also left on a free transfer after his contract expired.
With Brentford ready for alternatives, Man United could be "lighted up" to complete the Mbeumo deal. However, they still have to meet the financial requirements from Brentford.
"If Mbeumo leaves, it will be on our terms. Mbeumo scored 20 goals in the Premier League last season and we know there will be a lot of interest. If he gets a big deal and that makes sense financially, we are ready to consider it," Brentford sporting director Phil Giles said.
