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Manchester United miffed by Newcastle United favouritism as transfer saga bears fruit

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Pranav Nair | Last updated Jul 22, 2025 8:48 AM ET

Manchester United unhappy with Brentford following the signing of Bryan Mbeumo

Manchester United’s latest addition, Bryan Mbeumo, has arrived at Old Trafford, but not without controversy behind the scenes. According to Manchester Evening News, Red Devils’ officials are less than pleased with Brentford’s handling of the transfer negotiations, accusing the London side of attempting to steer the player towards rival suitors, most notably Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur.

Despite Mbeumo’s long-standing admiration for United, Brentford dragged out discussions, even rejecting two formal bids from the Red Devils. The Bees initially demanded a hefty £70 million up front, a fee United deemed inflated. Eventually, a deal was struck for £65 million, potentially rising to £71 million with performance-based add-ons.

Complicating matters further was Brentford’s alleged effort to convince Mbeumo to lower his wage expectations, something United insiders claim was never an issue on their end. The belief at Old Trafford is that these actions were taken with the intent of smoothing the way for Newcastle to swoop in.

Mbeumo’s choice was always clear

With the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea hovering in the background, and Newcastle United offering the lure of Champions League football, Mbeumo faced no shortage of options. Chelsea also attempted an alleged late hijack of the move, while Newcastle remained a strong contender throughout.

Yet the 25-year-old winger stood firm in his decision. Speaking after completing his transfer, Mbeumo explained, “As soon as I knew there was a chance to join Manchester United, I had to take the opportunity to sign for the club of my dreams; the team whose shirt I wore growing up.”

Even in the midst of Manchester United’s most challenging season in over five decades, Mbeumo opted for legacy over immediate success. This is the sort of mentality we need to inculcate in our squad.

United get their man, but not without a fight

Manchester United’s growing frustration during the Mbeumo saga reveals a deeper concern: even legacy clubs are struggling to assert control in an increasingly political transfer market. The idea that Brentford could attempt to nudge their player towards other clubs, despite the player’s clear preference, raises questions about fairness, influence, and financial leverage in modern football.

That said, United’s persistence paid off. They’ve landed a proven Premier League performer with immense drive and loyalty, two traits the club desperately needs. Mbeumo’s decision to join United even without European football speaks volumes about the club’s remaining pull, and perhaps more importantly, about the character of the player himself.

Brentford may have stalled the process, but in the end, United got their man and one who looks ready to fight for the badge. Now it is time for him to repay that faith on the field.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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