In a fluid summer transfer window, Manchester United have begun preliminary discussions with Lyon’s Corentin Tolisso as they reevaluate their approach following a setback in their pursuit of Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo.
The Red Devils, under the stewardship of manager Ruben Amorim, have already fortified their ranks with the acquisitions of Matheus Cunha from Wolves, after triggering his £62.5 million release clause, and Diego Leon from Paraguayan side Cerro Porteño for £3.3 million. However, with the board’s ambition for extensive squad enhancements, United face a constrained budgetary situation, especially as attempts to offload the likes of Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Alejandro Garnacho have yet to materialise.
Determined to bolster their midfield in light of Christian Eriksen’s departure, United have reportedly turned their attention to Tolisso, amidst interest in Palmeiras’ Richard Rios and Barcelona’s Marc Casado. According to French publication L’Equipe, initial talks with Tolisso’s representatives have commenced, although the player, whilst intrigued by the project at Old Trafford, does not intend to agitate for a move away from Lyon. The French club, guided by Paulo Fonseca, views the 30 year old as a pivotal figure for the upcoming season and have slapped an £8.7 million valuation on him, potentially complicating negotiations.
While Manchester United continue revamping their squad, their pursuit of the prolific Mbeumo has been fraught with challenges. Brentford have rebuffed two bids, sticking steadfastly to a £65 million valuation for the Cameroonian international, who notched 20 goals and eight assists in the previous Premier League campaign. Although Mbeumo is keen on the switch to Old Trafford, the Bees are in no rush, proceeding with caution as transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano reports Brentford’s interest in Ipswich Town’s Omari Hutchinson as a potential replacement.
The drawn-out negotiations for Mbeumo have been brought into sharper focus following a video released by Brentford, showcasing Mbeumo’s return for pre-season, alongside new signings such as Caoimhin Kelleher. As rival clubs like Tottenham, Newcastle, and Nottingham Forest reportedly circle Mbeumo’s strike partner, Yoane Wissa, United find their prospective transfer dealings further muddled.
However, United remain undeterred, bolstered by Romano’s assurances that the deal remains in play. Meanwhile, speculation persists regarding potential suitors for either Mbeumo or Wissa, with Brentford preferring to sell only one of their prized forwards, thus casting an air of uncertainty over United’s lofty transfer aspirations.
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