Transfer Tussle: Nottingham Forest’s Wissa Bid Shakes Up Mbeumo Market
The summer transfer window is heating up, and Nottingham Forest have thrown a curveball into the mix with a reported bid for Brentford striker Yoane Wissa. This move could have significant ripple effects, particularly on Manchester United’s pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo.
Manchester United’s Mbeumo Dilemma
Manchester United are currently leading the race for Mbeumo, but their journey has been anything but smooth. Despite being the frontrunners, the Red Devils have seen two offers knocked back by Brentford, who are standing firm on their £65 million valuation. United’s budget constraints, exacerbated by their struggle to offload high-earning stars like Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Antony, have made this transfer saga even more challenging.
Tottenham’s Shadow Over Old Trafford
Adding to the drama, Tottenham Hotspur are also circling around Mbeumo, though the Cameroonian international has made it clear that Old Trafford is his preferred destination. With his contract running until 2026 and Brentford holding an option to extend it until 2027, the Bees are in a strong position to demand a premium fee.
Forest’s Wissa Move: A Game-Changer?
Nottingham Forest’s renewed interest in Wissa, as reported by David Ornstein, could be the twist that forces United to act decisively. Forest made a £25 million bid for Wissa in January, which was swiftly rejected. Their latest offer, however, still falls short of Brentford’s £50 million-plus valuation. If Forest manage to secure Wissa, it could push Mbeumo’s price even higher, leaving United in a precarious position.
Brentford’s Stance: One Out, Not Both
Transfer journalist Ben Jacobs has emphasized that Brentford have no intention of selling both Mbeumo and Wissa in the same window. This means that any deal for Wissa could complicate United’s pursuit of Mbeumo, potentially driving up the Cameroonian’s price tag beyond the current £65 million benchmark.
Forest’s Attacking Overhaul
Forest’s interest in Wissa comes at a crucial time as they look to bolster their attacking options. The club has already agreed to sell Anthony Elanga to Newcastle, and Tottenham Hotspur have triggered the release clause for Morgan Gibbs-White. Wissa’s 19-goal Premier League haul last season, which helped Brentford secure a tenth-place finish, makes him a tantalizing prospect for a Forest side eager to climb the table.
A Busy Week in the Premier League
In a week packed with transfer activity, Brentford also finalized the sale of Christian Norgaard to Arsenal for an initial £10 million. As the clock ticks down to the pre-season tour of the United States, manager Ruben Amorim is keen to wrap up his transfer business promptly.
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