Arsenal enter race for Bryan Mbeumo as Premier League rivals circle

Arsenal have stepped into the battle for Bryan Mbeumo, one of the Premier League’s standout forwards of the 2024–25 season. The Brentford attacker registered 20 goals and 8 assists in the Premier League during the 2024–25 season and is now attracting interest from multiple top-flight clubs.

According to Sky Sports, Newcastle United have made Mbeumo a priority signing for the summer, while Manchester United have been tracking the player for several months. Fabrizio Romano reports that Arsenal are also preparing an official approach.

Elite numbers, elite consistency

The 25-year-old Cameroon international missed only six minutes throughout the entire campaign, showcasing not just elite productivity but remarkable durability. His contract with Brentford runs until 2026, placing the club in a strong negotiating position.

Arsenal’s broader attacking strategy

According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal are continuing to explore deals for Benjamin Šeško and Viktor Gyökeres while also seeking to strengthen their wide attacking options. Mbeumo, a left-footed right winger, is seen as a natural fit to ease the workload on Bukayo Saka and add rotational depth to Mikel Arteta’s system.

His profile aligns well with Arteta’s tactical blueprint—capable of holding width, cutting inside with purpose, and contributing off the ball. Nonetheless, the presence of Ethan Nwaneri, who has been trialled in similar areas, may lead to internal role adjustments if Mbeumo joins.

Brentford open but firm

In a recent interview with The Times, Thomas Frank addressed the club’s stance:

“Outside the world’s top ten clubs, everyone is essentially a selling club. But the price must be right—and it won’t come cheap. That said, I’m happy Bryan is here, and I believe he’s happy to stay.”

Brentford captain Christian Nørgaard echoed this sentiment in an interview with Sky Sports, noting that Mbeumo’s departure was more likely than that of teammate Yoane Wissa, who also drew attention after finishing as the Premier League’s second-highest scorer from open play, behind only Mohamed Salah.

Interest in Wissa adds to summer intrigue

Wissa’s performances have triggered their own wave of interest. The Guardian reports that Nottingham Forest saw a £22 million bid rejected in January 2025, underlining Brentford’s firm valuation strategy. Both forwards are now expected to headline one of the defining transfer sagas of the summer.