Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur locked in a fierce battle for Brentford ace

United may view Yarmolyuk as a long-term target for 2026, but Tottenham appear to hold the stronger position. Spurs boss Thomas Frank previously coached the Ukrainian at Brentford and is eager for a reunion, giving his side a potential edge in the race.

Brentford, however, remain firm in their stance. The club has no intention of sanctioning a move this season, especially after losing Bryan Mbeumo, Yoane Wissa, and Christian Nørgaard last summer. For now, the Bees are determined to keep Yarmolyuk as they prioritise stability in their squad.

Why does Yarmolyuk fit United?

Yarmolyuk looks like the kind of midfielder Manchester United desperately need. The 21-year-old is versatile enough to operate as a holding player, a box-to-box presence, or in a more advanced role, qualities that would add variety to a United midfield short on options. His intensity and relentless work rate make him an effective presser, while his composure allows him to retain possession under pressure, traits widely praised by scouts.

His passing range and technical ability suggest he could provide a smooth link between defence and attack. Physically, he boasts the stamina to influence games across the full ninety minutes. That said, he remains somewhat raw in certain aspects of his game.

Valued at around £30 million, Brentford are determined to keep hold of him, though the lure of bigger clubs will inevitably be difficult to resist. Tottenham may hold an edge due to Thomas Frank’s past relationship with the player and their own midfield issues, with Yves Bissouma unsettled and Rodrigo Bentancur struggling for consistency.

For United, however, missing out on another target would be costly, especially with the squad lacking a reliable defensive midfielder. Phil Jones’s recent comments backing Kobbie Mainoo to seek a January exit only add to the urgency. Yarmolyuk may not yet be the finished product, but his attributes align perfectly with what United have been missing, and in the long term, he could be the energetic midfielder needed to bring balance between defence and attack.