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Bryan Mbeumo hints which striker Man United should choose between Benjamin Sesko and Ollie Watkins
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images

Bryan Mbeumo hit the net 20 times in the Premier League last season, but Manchester United are still on the lookout for a striker – and he may have just given Ruben Amorim a hint about who he prefers.

Along with Matheus Cunha, they’ve brought in 35 goals from last season to a team that managed just 44 in total.

But both Cunha and Mbeumo thrived in setups where a proper striker drew defenders away and created space for them to operate.

The Cameroonian international spoke to Rio Ferdinand about the kind of striker that suits him best, mentioning a player who’s already been linked with United this transfer window.

Bryan Mbeumo heaps huge praise on United’s target Ollie Watkins


Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images

Mbeumo’s significant progress at Brentford is widely recognized, yet it’s easy to forget the extent of his journey since his initial days. He joined the Bees when they were still in the Championship, and he did so without any prior knowledge of English.

Despite the challenges, he quickly built strong connections with players like Ivan Toney, Said Benrahma, and later Yoanne Wissa.

While Wissa has been getting plenty of attention recently, it was another name that helped shape Mbeumo’s early success: Ollie Watkins.

The two formed a dynamic pairing during their time at Brentford, and speaking on Rio Ferdinand’s YouTube channel, Mbeumo explained why that type of forward suits him so well.

“It was important to have a really good relationship [with Watkins],” he said. “I could have a chat with him after my English got better. I think he’s a complete striker.

“He can do a lot of things, drop deep, go in behind. It is really good for me because you can use that space there. He can combine as well. Really good.”

Why Man United and Ruben Amorim need to act fast

United’s striker hunt appears to be down to two main options – Ollie Watkins and Benjamin Sesko, though there’s an argument that another name might fit even better.

With nearly £130m already spent on Cunha and Mbeumo, Ineos can’t afford another miss up front. They need someone who fits the pair, not just another big name.

Watkins brings a unique blend of qualities. He scores goals and creates them in equal measure – a rare mix that could tie everything together.

A key selling point for Mbeumo and Cunha was their readiness. Both were already performing in the Premier League, so there’s no bedding-in period required.

Adding Watkins could take it a step further. He already has history with Mbeumo from their time at Brentford, so they wouldn’t need long to find their rhythm again.

Mbeumo knows what works for him, and his endorsement carries weight. United should listen closely. It might just simplify their decision over which forward to pursue this summer.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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