Mbeumo could stay at Brentford amid United interest — Official

Brentford director of football, Phil Giles, has said it is “not impossible” that forward Bryan Mbeumo will remain at the club next season, despite strong interest from Manchester United.

United have already seen two bids for the 25-year-old Cameroon international rejected, the latest believed to be worth up to £62.5m. Mbeumo is understood to be keen on the move and has reportedly informed the club of his desire to join the Red Devils.

Speaking to BBC Sport on Monday, Giles acknowledged the level of interest but insisted Brentford would only consider letting Mbeumo leave under the right conditions.

“He had a fantastic season. We expected big interest in him, we have had big interest in him. He has his ideas about where he wants to take his career. He is well within his rights to do that.

“It is not impossible he is still a Brentford player next season if we agree he is going to stay,” Giles said.

Giles emphasised that Brentford would only sanction a sale if the terms were favourable.

“Any club will tell you that. If it’s not the right deal, why would we do it?

“He is certainly one of our best players, if not our best player, and we need our best players. There’s no harm in keeping your best players,” he added.

In a related development, Giles also confirmed that club captain Christian Norgaard is nearing a move to Arsenal.

It was previously reported that both clubs had agreed on a fee of up to £15m, including add-ons, for the Denmark international midfielder.

“We have been in conversations with Arsenal for the last week to 10 days. As it stands, it hasn’t been completed yet, but it is heading in that direction.

“If that happens for him, then fantastic, he’s earned it. He’s been a brilliant captain for us. Let’s see how that story ends, but we are pretty open about that interest there,” Giles said.

Source: Punch