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Manchester United are reportedly on the verge of completing a deal to sign Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo after recently lodging a third bid for him.
It’s been a frustrating pursuit for United, with talks over Mbeumo stalling as Brentford continue to move the goalposts on a potential deal.
At the start of last month, United tabled an opening bid for Mbeumo worth a total £55m. This was swiftly rejected by Brentford, who were believed to be holding out for a sum in the range of the £62.5m that United forked out to secure Matheus Cunha’s services from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Red Devils then returned with an improved proposal that valued Mbuemo in excess of £60m. This too was knocked back by the Bees. Negotiations have been ongoing for more than four weeks now, with United adamant that they will not be lured into overpaying for a transfer target.
It emerged that Brentford were looking for £70m to sanction the sale of Mbeumo, who has a year left on his contract at the Gtech Community Stadium. Brentford retain the option of extending his stay by an additional 12 months, which has significantly aided their bargaining power.
Earlier on Thursday, the reliable David Ornstein broke the news that United had sent in a third offer for Mbeumo, worth £65m plus £5m in add-ons.
Ornstein relayed that United are waiting to learn Brentford’s response.
According to The Standard’s Sam Tabuteau, there is now a good chance that United finally receive the green light to finalise their swoop for Mbeumo.
“The third bid matches Brentford’s valuation for Mbeumo, who scored 20 Premier League goals last season, and is expected to be accepted.”
“The 25-year-old had been growing increasingly frustrated at the slow progress of negotiations, which started in June, but with their latest offer, United hope to finalise a deal for Mbeumo imminently.”
“After weeks of deliberation, United have now agreed to meet Brentford’s demands. Once the offer is accepted, negotiations are expected to conclude swiftly, with Mbeumo keen on a move to Old Trafford.”
This has been corroborated by the Manchester Evening News journalists Samuel Luckhurst and Steven Railston.
“The Manchester Evening News understands there is confidence in the bid being accepted by Brentford, who recently insisted on a higher package for the Cameroon international during discussions.”
After Mbeumo, United are likely to turn their attention towards bringing in a striker.
Featured image David Rogers via Getty Images
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