Manchester United make Bryan Mbeumo 'decision' as cost of Brentford transfer could give Ruben Amorim summer problem

Manchester United are prepared to match Bryan Mbeumo's wage demands should they agree a fee with Brentford for his transfer, the latest reports have claimed.

United are certain to make a number of additions in the summer, and the club seem keen on strengthening their attack before focusing on other areas.

The team finished 15th in the Premier League and only netted 44 goals in the top flight last term, a tally that made them the division's fifth worst offensive side.

Matheus Cunha was signed from Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Brentford forward Mbeumo has strongly been linked with a move to Old Trafford.

The Mirror report that United are willing to match the attacker's wage demands of £250,000-a-week, a salary that would be five times the amount he currently earns.

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The Red Devils are said to be under severe financial pressure following their failure to secure European football, with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe implementing a number of unpopular cost-cutting measures during his tenure so far.

After agreeing to pay in the region of £60m for Cunha's signature, United may have to spend another £60m to sign Mbeumo given Brentford are said to have turned down an opening offer of £55m inclusive of add-ons.

It remains to be seen how much would be left for boss Ruben Amorim to spend should he sign the Bees' leading goalscorer, and spending such significant sums on just two players could be risky considering the club need a number of additions.

Agreeing to Mbeumo's wage demands could also prove to be an issue when the club attempt to negotiate the 25-year-old's next contract, as he will likely ask for an increase on his original terms.

Given United are in poor financial health due in large part to paying over-inflated transfer fees and wages, it is surprising that the club would be willing to give Mbeumo such a pay rise.

Additionally, giving the Brentford forward such a lofty wage could set a problematic precedent for other targets, who may feel entitled to ask for similar contract terms.

Written by
Lewis Nolan