Bryan Mbeumo. (REUTERS/Peter Cziborra)
Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo has stoked the rumour mill once more, saying he “accepts” the speculation surrounding his future this summer while also heaping praise on former manager Thomas Frank who has now joined Tottenham.
The Cameroon international scored 20 Premier League goals last season – his best goal tally since joining the club – as Brentford narrowly missed out on European football. His form has seen him attract interest this summer, with Manchester United seeing their bid of £45m plus £10m in bonuses rejected by Brentford.
Tottenham has now entered the fray, holding initial talks with Brentford about a deal for the player. Tottenham meanwhile have signed former Brentford boss Thomas Frank as their new head coach which could help sway Mbeumo’s decision.
Amid the brewing saga, Mbeumo spoke to Sky Sports and tipped his former boss to succeed in North London. Mbeumo credited Frank for his development as a player and for Brentford’s fortunes collectively.
Mbeumo adds fuel to Spurs speculation
“He’s done so much for me. He literally trusted me from the start,” Mbeumo said about Frank. “I think he developed the team so well.”
“He developed me as a human and a player as well. So I can only wish him all the best, and I’m sure he’s going to do well.”
“I think he knows everything. He’s really smart. He knows where he wants to bring the team, how he wants to play. I think he’s been fantastic for Brentford.”
“I think he’s going to have some time to adapt, obviously. [Champions League] games, more expectations, as you said, but I’m sure he’s going to do well.”
“He knows how to talk to people. He knows how to build a group. And that’s why we’ve been playing so well.”
Sky Sports reported that Mbeumo is still leaning towards Manchester United, who are expected to submit and improved bid to Brentford, but the player is now intrigued by the idea of reuniting with Frank at Tottenham.
Brentford believe that Mbeumo has earned the chance to move to a bigger club and will not stand in his way if their valuation is met – which stands now in excess of £60m.
Newcastle and Liverpool were also linked to the player earlier in the summer, but at the moment United and Spurs are the frontrunners.
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