“I’m ready to join Man United but they have to fulfill my condition. It’s looking like the higher-ups are not too willing” – This is according to Man United’s top target Bryan Mbeumo as Manchester United face uncertainty in his pursuit following a demand from the player.

Manchester United are currently leading the race to secure Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo’s signature this summer. The 25-year-old forward is believed to have indicated a preference for joining the Red Devils, who are looking to bounce back after one of their most disappointing seasons since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure.

Although Mbeumo is also attracting interest from Arsenal, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur — all of whom have Champions League football to offer — he appears to favour a move to Old Trafford. However, a transfer agreement is still pending. Brentford have turned down an initial bid of £45 million plus £5 million in add-ons, instead valuing the player at around £60 million.

While Manchester United are expected to return with an improved offer, nothing is finalized until Brentford officially accept terms. United fans may remember the case of John Obi Mikel, who was nearly signed in 2005 before Chelsea swooped in at the last moment — a reminder that football transfers can be unpredictable.

Tottenham could still play spoiler. On Friday, Spurs made headlines by sacking manager Ange Postecoglou just over two weeks after his Europa League triumph over United. Brentford boss Thomas Frank is reportedly the top candidate to replace him, which could complicate United’s pursuit of Mbeumo.

Frank has had a long-standing working relationship with Mbeumo, and if he takes over at Spurs, he might attempt to lure his star player with the promise of a continued partnership and the opportunity to stay in London — an appealing prospect.

Manchester United remain hopeful of closing the deal. Still, Tottenham’s managerial shake-up and potential move for Frank should serve as a wake-up call for the club to match Brentford’s asking price quickly, before another twist emerges in the transfer saga.

With 20 goals and eight assists in the Premier League last season, Mbeumo would be a major asset for any top club. United must now act decisively if they want to avoid losing out on one of the division’s most exciting attacking talents.