Bryan Mbeumo, a Brentford forward, has long been considered Newcastle United’s top summer transfer target.
The Cameroon international has been brilliant for Brentford this season, scoring 17 goals and assisting eight times in the Premier League, well exceeding his nine goals from the previous season.
Newcastle were previously interested in Mbeumo last year, but following this season, the Magpies will be more determined than ever to sign the 25-year-old.
Of course, given his form this season, many other clubs are expected to enter the race, with Newcastle making it a difficult deal to complete.
Brentford Manager Thomas Frank hasn’t given up on keeping Mbeumo. Speaking to Sky Sports (h/t Geordie Boot Boys) at Brentford’s end-of-season awards, Frank heaped praise on his star forward.
“He’s [Mbeumo] played fantastic.
“It’s been a privilege to work with him for six years and see his development from a teenager to a more grown up man in many ways. That personal development is equally as important.
“Always knew he was a goalscorer. Now he is a more consistent goalscorer. His hold up play is even better. His link-up play, his work ethic… fantastic. Very impressed.”
When Frank was asked if Bryan Mbeumo would be a Brentford player next season, the Danish manager delivered a two-word response.
Let’s see.
“Everyone loves him. I monitor him on a daily basis. He enters with a wide smile. He wants to be a Brentford player, but we’ll see.”
There’s some hope there, but let’s be honest: that’s the reaction of a man who knows his greatest player will be out at the end of the season but refuses to confess it too soon.
