Brentford’s manager, Thomas Frank, has raised the possibility of the club parting ways with sought-after forward Bryan Mbeumo this summer, with Arsenal, Liverpool, and Newcastle United all showing significant interest in the Cameroon international.
Mbeumo has accumulated 24 goals and assists in the Premier League this season, playing a crucial role in Brentford’s pursuit of a commendable top-half finish.
At 25 years old, he has demonstrated his capabilities over multiple seasons and presents long-term potential for any prospective buyer.
Frank noted that the sale of key players and reinvestment in the squad is part of the ‘natural flow’ for a club like Brentford, which has a history of allowing its star players to depart.
‘I have lost Neal Maupay, Ollie Watkins, and Ivan Toney, all of whom were key strikers contributing over 25 goals.
Each season, we find ways to replace those goals with other players, and I am confident we can do it again,’ Frank stated.
‘We are a selling club, much like most clubs globally, with the exception of the top ten largest clubs. A strong squad requires fresh energy periodically.
Therefore, it is not merely a desire for [Yoane] Wissa and Bryan to leave or to retain them; there are various players to consider.
We need vitality in the squad, and the introduction of new players brings a different dynamic.
However, it is essential to maintain that natural flow.’
It is a significant change in stance from Brentford, who issued an undeniable hands-off warning to Mbeumo’s prospective suitors ahead of the January transfer window.
“I would say good luck…nothing will happen,” Frank said at the time.
Mbeumo has a contract until 2026, with Brentford holding an option to extend by 12 more months.
If the Bees don’t sell this summer and the player is set on taking the next step in his career, his market value will still falling once this summer is over and the 2027 expiration gets nearer.
The Telegraph has reported that Brentford are expected to ask for £60m, which is considered a potential stumbling block for Newcastle in particular, even though he has been identified as an “ideal target”.
But owing to needs in other positions and the possibility that rival interest from Arsenal and Liverpool could spark a bidding war, there are doubt whether the Magpies can pull off a deal.