Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag has been advised to bolster his squad by pursuing a transfer for Brentford’s in-form forward Bryan Mbeumo during the upcoming January window.
Also Read: Wrexham sign ex-Manchester United academy star in bid to maintain promotion push
Despite investing in their attacking options over the summer, the Red Devils have faced challenges, particularly with young striker Joshua Zirkzee struggling to make an immediate impact.
While Rasmus Hojlund has shown promise since his return from injury, Ten Hag is wary of relying too heavily on a player who has had fitness issues throughout his time at Old Trafford.
Neutrals had initially feared for Brentford’s fortunes after the departure of their former talisman, Ivan Toney, but Mbeumo has risen to the occasion, enjoying a remarkable season.
The Cameroon international showcased his talent by scoring twice in a thrilling 4-3 victory over Ipswich, bringing his season tally to eight goals. Former United defender Mikaël Silvestre believes Mbeumo would be a savvy acquisition for the club.
“What Bryan Mbeumo has been doing for Brentford is a credit to him,” Silvestre commented.
“Replacing the goals of Ivan Toney was never going to be easy, but he’s stepped up. I believe that top clubs like Manchester United should closely monitor his progress this season. At 25, it’s a pivotal time for him to see if he can make that next step.”
Mbeumo’s impactful performance is gaining attention, with Thomas Frank praising his team’s “fantastic comeback” in the match. Mbeumo scored the winner in second-half added time, sealing victory after Brentford had initially fallen behind by two goals.
Frank noted, “We’re in the entertainment business, so we wanted to give our fans something for their money. I felt for Kieran (McKenna), as his side worked hard, but we showed great mentality and personality. Our comeback was fantastic in many ways. Football is relentless.”
With eight goals in his last nine matches, Mbeumo’s form has been impressive, leading Frank to assert, “I hope he gets recognition as one of the league’s best. Eight goals in nine games is a remarkable feat for a winger in a mid-table Premier League team; that’s not normal.”