“It’s been in the news for far too long"—Rio Ferdinand Sounds Alarm as Manchester United Risk Embarrassment Over Bryan Mbeumo Transfer Delay

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has warned the club to act fast or risk major embarrassment over their ongoing pursuit of Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo.

United’s transfer business this summer has been slow, and while they managed to secure Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5 million, there’s growing concern about the lack of movement since then—especially with Mbeumo.

The Red Devils have been chasing the Brentford forward for weeks, but despite multiple bids, no agreement has been reached. According to reports, Brentford have continued to shift their demands, making negotiations increasingly complicated. Still, United seem determined to bring Mbeumo to Old Trafford before the window closes.

Speaking on his Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel, the former United defender expressed frustration over the delay.

“Man United need to find a way of meeting Brentford’s valuation. The proposal doesn’t seem to be enough for Brentford, but Man United need to get this done,” Ferdinand said.

“It’s been in the news for far too long. To get to the end of the window and it doesn’t happen, I think that will be an egg-on-the-face situation for Man United unless they go and get someone else.”

Ferdinand also raised the issue of alternatives, saying no other names have been strongly linked and that United could end up stuck without a solution.

“I will repeat myself: he fits the bill for me physically, he is dynamic, scores goals in the Premier League, knows the Premier League. Watch this space.”

The 24-year-old Cameroon international scored 9 goals and registered 6 assists last season in the Premier League, helping Brentford stay competitive despite the absence of Ivan Toney for large parts of the campaign.

For new United boss Rúben Amorim, who prefers a 3-4-2-1 formation, Mbeumo could be a key part of the attack. His pace, movement, and left-footed threat from the right would complement a front line featuring Cunha and Joshua Zirkzee.

But if United fail to seal the deal, questions will be asked—especially with fans desperate to see new faces in pre-season and beyond.

The transfer could also affect other players at the club. Amad Diallo, who impressed last season, might be forced to shift permanently to a right wing-back role to make space for Mbeumo, a move that could limit his attacking output.

United’s other wide options are limited. Youngsters like Shea Lacey and Bendito Mantato are talented but inexperienced, and Amorim may be reluctant to rely heavily on them in a crucial season.

As the window ticks on, Manchester United must act swiftly. If Mbeumo is their man, it’s time to push the deal through—before the summer turns into another chapter of what-could-have-beens.