Manchester Evening News

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy shares true feelings on Man City's FFP charges

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Manchester City are still awaiting the conclusion of the 115 Financial Fair Play (FFP) charges hearing that was first brought forward in February 2023

Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy has urged the Premier League to accelerate the result of Manchester City's Financial Fair Play (FFP) hearing ahead of the new campaign starting in less than a fortnight.

In February 2023, City were charged with 115 historical FFP breaches by the top flight. It was alleged the breaches took place between 2009 and 2018, mainly relating to the manner in which players and staff were paid by the club.

City have vehemently denied these charges and expressed they had 'irrefutable evidence' which cleared their name. Despite being charged more than two years ago now, the hearing only began in September 2024 and lasted two months.

There had been hope that City would discover their fate at the beginning of 2025 but that timeline came and went. Now with less than two weeks until the start of the campaign, it is rumoured that we will be waiting until at least October for the hearing verdict to be published.

Amid the delays and confusion, Levy was asked about the situation on The Overlap with former Manchester United captain Gary Neville. Explaining his thoughts on the matter, the Spurs chairman said: "I think it would be really unfair of me to talk about another club in the Premier League, all I would say is that it’s going through a process which I think has gone on for far too long.

"It needs to be brought, for the good of the game, to a conclusion one way or another." Neville went on to complain about the Premier League's perceived mishandling of the situation describing it as 'shameful' that they cannot get their house in order.

Levy responded: "Well I, as I said, I think it was the FA that should have brought us all together. I agree, it's unfortunate that we haven’t been able to resolve things internally rather than the recourse of the lawyers because the lawyers are going to earn a lot of money out of this."

City are currently unaware of what their fate could hold should the hearing find them guilty. Punishments varying from fines to expulsion from the Premier League have all been suggested.

However, should they be found not guilty, City may still not be out of danger. The top flight could choose to appeal the decision from the independent panel and, likewise, the Blues can appeal if they are found guilty.

Either way, this saga still seems a long way from being settled.

Here at The Manchester Evening News, we're dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester City coverage and analysis.

Make sure you don't miss out on the latest City news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get the club's breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.

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I told Manchester United I'd reject them - now I could sign for Tottenham

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I told Manchester United I'd reject them - now I could sign for Tottenham - Manchester Evening News
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Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly opened negotiations over a possible move for a Bayern Munich midfielder, who was said to have turned down interest from Manchester United not too long ago

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly begun talks over a move for former Manchester United target Joao Palhinha. The midfielder endured a frustrating first season at Bayern Munich, but previously shone in the Premier League with Fulham.

The 30-year-old was limited to just six league starts for the German club during an injury-hit campaign following his move worth up to £47.4million last summer. Palhinha was a standout performer during his two years at Craven Cottage and was reported to be a target for United and several other clubs during his time in West London.

Bayern eventually won the race for Palhinha’s signature, having seen a deadline day move collapse in 2023. There have been claims that United have reignited their interest in Palhinha this summer, but the midfielder could return to the Premier League with a different club after emerging as a target for Spurs.

The Independent has reported that Tottenham have started negotiations over a possible loan move for the former Sporting Lisbon star. It is claimed that Spurs held an interest in Palhinha prior to him joining Bayern.

A temporary move to Spurs could allow Palhinha to rediscover top form ahead of the 2026 World Cup and prove that Bayern boss Vincent Kompany was wrong to overlook him. Tottenham already have several midfield options but may wish to bolster their squad after gaining Champions League qualification through defeating United in the Europa League final

Palhinha has previously been resolute when it comes to deciding his future. Sky Germany stated that the ex-Fulham star made it clear he would reject any approach from United as he was determined to sign for Bayern last summer after his initial move fell through.

Fulham were claimed to have set a £60m asking price for Palhinha, who was said to be a target for United, Barcelona and Bayern. However, the uncertainty over then-United boss Erik ten Hag’s future, who would sign a contract extension only to be sacked in October, did not strengthen the club’s chances of changing Palhinha’s mind.

United’s missed opportunity could ultimately benefit Spurs if Palhinha does join Thomas Frank’s side on loan. However, the holding midfielder will want to avoid another drawn-out transfer saga, having reflected on the awkward situation he found himself in at Fulham two years ago.

“Obviously, it affected me and my family a lot, but it’s water under the bridge, I don’t want to remember too much about it,” Palhinha said of his failed move to Bayern in 2023. “It’s a great pride, you know what happened. In my life everything that has been happening – it has been for a reason, I like to think that way. The future will tell me whether what really happened was what had to happen or not.

“But only the future will show me that. I want to continue walking the journey as I’ve been doing, no one has given me anything throughout my career, everything I’ve achieved is earned, for my work. I hope that continues to be the case. I’m 28 years old, but I know I can reach higher and it’s with this ambition that I face the future.”

Spurs have already received an endorsement of Palhinha’s skillset from current England boss Thomas Tuchel, who lamented missing out on his midfield target. “I was sad because I know what he would have added to our team,” former Bayern manager Tuchel admitted.

“He was sad and disappointed. We’ll speak again about what happened. Everyone did what they had to do, but it was too late in the end.”

United ultimately signed Manuel Ugarte from Sporting in the same window that Palhinha completed his long-awaited move to Bayern. The £51m midfielder, who is a former team-mate of Palhinha’s, made 45 appearances in his first year at United and has since been reunited with ex-Sporting boss Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford.

Meanwhile, Spurs enjoyed a 1-0 pre-season win over local rivals Arsenal at the Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong on Thursday, with midfielder Pape Matar Sarr scoring the game’s only goal. The club have brought in Mohammed Kudus for £55m and sealed permanent moves for former loanees Kevin Danso and Mathys Tel, as well as signing several young prospects so far this summer.

Marcus Rashford humiliation made me tear my shirt off in anger – I was so upset

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Marcus Rashford suffered the ultimate humiliation on his Barcelona debut - something former midfielder Hossam Ghaly knows all too well after it ended his Tottenham Hotspur career

Marcus Rashford endured one of the most embarrassing moments a professional footballer can face on Sunday.

The Manchester United forward secured his dream loan move to Barcelona last week as he looks to revive his faltering career. The deal, which was completed in time for Rashford to travel to Japan alongside the rest of the Barcelona squad, provides the La Liga champions with an option to purchase him for £26million next summer.

Rashford's first pre-season appearance came against Japanese side Vissel Kobe, where he began the match on the substitutes' bench. Hansi Flick introduced the 27-year-old for his eagerly-awaited debut at the half-time break, with Rashford displaying flashes of quality and commitment to his defensive duties in his new Blaugrana colours.

However, he was quickly brought back down to earth as manager Flick withdrew him after just 33 minutes, right after he had played a key role in Barcelona's second goal. Rashford and left-back Jofre Torrents were replaced by Gerard Martin and Pedro Fernandez, with the latter going on to score Barca's third.

While the substitution would have wounded Rashford's pride, Flick explained that his decision wasn't performance-based, saying: "Rashford hasn't played that much, and we also wanted to give Gerard Martin 15 minutes because he was playing after his injury."

Only seven days earlier, Rashford had been amongst United's 'bomb squad' – a group of players training in isolation and permitted to use the club's Carrington training facility only after the first-team squad had gone home.

One player who understands how Rashford would have felt this weekend is former Tottenham midfielder Hossam Ghaly. Ghaly joined Spurs in 2006 and was used sporadically by then-manager Martin Jol throughout the 2006/07 campaign.

After being in and out of the team, the Egyptian was introduced against Blackburn Rovers during the first half of the penultimate Premier League game of the season, after Steed Malbranque suffered an injury. But similarly to Rashford, he found himself taken off just 31 minutes into his entrance – only his substitution was due to a poor performance.

In contrast to Rashford, however, Ghaly reacted in the worst manner possible, angrily hurling his shirt onto the floor while leaving the field. The gesture angered the Spurs supporters as boos and chants of "You're not fit to wear the shirt" echoed around the ground.

Ghaly faced disciplinary action from the club and was left out of the matchday squad for the final game of the season, before issuing a public apology. He said: "I am just so angry with myself. I have always considered it an honour to wear the Tottenham shirt and I never intended to show any disrespect.

"I knew things weren't happening for me out there, my play was terrible and I could hear the crowd jeering me. I was so upset at the fans' reaction. I have enjoyed playing in front of the club's supporters all season and I felt I had given my best all the time and played some decent football.

"It is always hard to accept being substituted after such a short period of time and I was upset and taken aback by the cheering. I am a player who plays with my heart.

"I know my reaction was totally wrong," he went on to say. "I have apologised to the manager and I also want to apologise to the fans. I hope they don't judge me on this incident alone. I have tried hard for the club this season."

Despite his attempts at making amends, that proved to be Ghaly's final appearance for Spurs as he was loaned out to Derby County in January 2008. He returned to north London for the 2008/09 campaign but failed to appear in a single match before leaving permanently.

Harry Redknapp contemplated introducing him during a January 2009 clash with Wigan, but the English manager thought better of it after hearing the supporters jeer Ghaly while he warmed up and prepared to come on off the bench.

Rashford will be keen to steer clear of a similar fate at Barcelona, while also hoping that Flick doesn't make a habit of exposing him to public embarrassment. The England star has endured his share of falling outs with United bosses Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim in recent times.

Manchester United 'target' new striker as Tottenham seek transfer advantage

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Latest Manchester United transfer news and gossip with updates on Kobbie Mainoo's future and Paris Saint-Germain striker Randal Kolo Muani

Manchester United have two new signings through the door this summer and could add more players to their ranks in the near future.

Bryan Mbeumo completed a £70 million move to United last week to become the second new signing for the club this summer. The Cameroon international joins Matheus Cunha in completing a move to Old Trafford as they now prepare for the new Premier League season, which gets underway next month.

United have more than a month to go until the summer transfer window closes on September 1. Between now and then, there are likely to be plenty of rumours about who United may or may not sign before the window closes.

Here, the Manchester Evening News takes a look at some of the latest United transfer news and gossip that has generated headlines over the last 24 hours.

Kobbie Mainoo 'wanted'

A report in Give Me Sport has claimed that United star Kobbie Mainoo is a target for Tottenham Hotspur this summer.

It has been reported that Spurs have identified Mainoo as a target after missing out on signing Morgan Gibbs-White from Nottingham Forest.

The report claims that Tottenham will look to take advantage of Mainoo's contract situation remaining unresolved, with the midfielder's current deal running until the summer of 2027.

MEN Sport says: Mainoo is one of the most talented prospects at United and is destined for a bright future at Old Trafford. The contract uncertainty is unsurprisingly leading to speculation around his future, so United would be wise to get a new deal wrapped up as soon as possible.

Randal Kolo Muani update

United are once again being linked with a move for Paris Saint-Germain striker Randal Kolo Muani.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, United will look to provide competition to Juventus for the signing of Kolo Muani this summer.

The France international spent the second half of last season on loan at Juventus, who are reportedly interested in re-signing the striker on a permanent deal this summer.

MEN Sport says: United have been linked with several strikers already this summer, and Kolo Muani is one of the players credited as a potential target in recent weeks. Only time will tell if United will make an active attempt to sign Kolo Muani, but it seems that they may find it difficult to fend off competition from Juventus.

Here at The Manchester Evening News, we are dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester United coverage and analysis.

Make sure you don't miss out on the latest United news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.

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Tottenham have shown Man United how they can complete Viktor Gyokeres transfer

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Tottenham have shown Man United how they can complete Viktor Gyokeres transfer - Manchester Evening News
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Sporting Lisbon are proving to be a difficult nut to crack as they try to receive the best possible price for their talisman, Viktor Gyokeres, this summer.

Arsenal's negotiations with the Portuguese club have nearly hit a dead end as Sporting president Frederico Varandas continues to push for a total deal priced at £69m. The issue from Gyokeres' side, which is currently resulting in the player effectively going on strike, is that he was under the impression he could leave for just under £60m.

Varandas has confirmed that Sporting will be launching disciplinary action against Gyokeres for failing to report for the start of pre-season. Such behaviour may feel uncommon practice, however Sporting do have precedent for dealing with clubs like this and Manchester United have already been told the formula to succeed.

Cast your minds back to the January transfer window of 2023 and Tottenham Hotspur seemed certain to be signing Pedro Porro from Sporting. All was agreed and a medical was booked in London for the full-back.

However, as The Athletic reported at the time, the deal was on the verge of being called off as Varandas made a last-minute ploy for more money by reneging on the offer that was already agreed. This unconventional move is not too far removed from what the Sporting president is doing with Gyokeres.

Eventually, Spurs were able to get their man through help from Porro who admitted he did not turn up to training on deadline day so that he could force Sporting's hand. United will hope the Swedish centre-forward is not having to resort to such tricks come the end of August if they are trying to sign him but the lessons from the Porro deal are a timely reminder for the Reds.

Sooner or later, Sporting are going to have to fold on Gyokeres. They simply cannot afford to have a player in their squad who is willing to not turn up to training until a move away is completed.

It makes no sense for Varandas to keep a player against his will and while, at the moment, he is happy to hold his line due to the lack of competitive fixtures, he will have no choice but to compromise as we edge closer to the regular season beginning. Should United want Gyokeres, they must remain patient and trust that negotiating with Sporting will become easier as the transfer window progresses.

Here at The Manchester Evening News, we are dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester United coverage and analysis.

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What Tottenham's Yoane Wissa 'move' could mean for Man United's Bryan Mbeumo transfer

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What Tottenham's Yoane Wissa 'move' could mean for Man United's Bryan Mbeumo transfer - Manchester Evening News
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Manchester United have been locked in talks with Brentford over the signing of Bryan Mbeumo since June with no resolution as of yet

Manchester United could reportedly be on the verge of missing out on Bryan Mbeumo this summer after Tottenham Hotspur opened interest in his Brentford teammate Yoane Wissa.

Wissa and Mbeumo have been a formidable partnership for the Bees and with 19 and 20 goals scored respectively between them in the Premier League. The Cameroonian has drawn interest from United and they have been locked in negotiations with Brentford for his signature since last month.

MEN Sport understands that two offers have been rejected so far for Mbeumo but there is still confidence from United that they will be able to get a deal done. However, a spanner appears to have been thrown into the works on Wednesday.

Multiple reports, including from BBC Sport, claim that Thomas Frank has instructed Spurs to target Wissa this transfer window. Tottenham are currently understood to be weighing up the financials surrounding the deal.

Frank had wanted to bring Mbeumo with him to north London, but was informed the 25-year-old would be leaving for Old Trafford or not at all in the summer. This has led Tottenham to reassess their options and Wissa is thought to be keen on a move to Spurs.

Unfortunately for United, journalist Ben Jacobs understands that Brentford are only willing to let Wissa or Mbeumo leave, not both. This means that should Wissa agree terms with Spurs, the move for Mbeumo could be scuppered completely.

The good news for United is that they are clearly in a more advanced stage in their negotiations to sign Mbeumo so have the upper hand there. But, it has been claimed that Mbeumo is happy to stay at Brentford so the Reds cannot rely on the forward forcing a move from the club should the Bees decide not to sell.

It seems United are now in a position where they must come to a quick agreement with Brentford for Mbeumo or risk missing out.

Here at The Manchester Evening News, we are dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester United coverage and analysis.

Make sure you don't miss out on the latest United news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.

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Marcus Rashford to Tottenham Man United transfer boost as new striker 'shock' emerges

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Manchester United are days away from the start of pre-season with just one major signing made

Manchester United return to pre-season training on Monday as they prepare for a huge season under Ruben Amorim.

The Reds endured a disastrous 2024/25 campaign, finishing 15th in the Premier League with a goal difference of minus 10. The club has so far only made one major signing in Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers this summer, while they continue to pursue Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo.

There is growing frustration among United fans due to the lack of sales and only one new player joining the squad. However, there is still ample time for the Reds to bring in new players before their first competitive match of the 25/26 campaign. United's season begins at home against Arsenal on August 17.

Here are some of the latest stories about United this summer, along with our take on each.

Tottenham claim

Football finance expert Dan Plumley has claimed that Tottenham Hotspur could finance a move for United's Marcus Rashford this summer.

“You would anticipate his wage demands would be pretty high,” he said via Tottenham News.

“If you look at that in the context of Spurs, that’s not necessarily an issue for them on a wages turnover position, because theirs has historically been lower than 50 per cent in the last few seasons.

“So, if you look at wages to turn over headroom, and obviously wrapping that up into UEFA and squad cost, it’s plausible.

“The bigger question is, again with Spurs, how much are his wage demands, what does he want, and you’ve got to factor that into the long-term contract position before you’ve even engaged on a fee.

“It’s one of those where Spurs could afford it in the long-term, and they’re going to have Champions League money as well to boost that in the season that we’re coming into, but it’s whether or not they really want to outlay a significant amount of wages on that kind of player, and then the fee over the top.”

Isaac Seelochan of The Manchester Evening News says: "It feels inevitable that Rashford will leave United this summer, whether that is on a permanent deal or another loan move. Ideally, he will go abroad so the Reds will avoid the potential embarrassment of him coming back to haunt Amorim.

"However, Premier League clubs are more likely to be able to afford him, so a stay in England can't be ruled out."

David 'shock'

Journalist Graeme Bailey has claimed there was shock United did not make a move for striker Jonathan David before he joined Juventus on a free transfer this summer.

“I have chased this with his people, and I can confirm they have been shocked by the lack of significant talks with most Premier League clubs, including United," he told United In Focus.

“Yes, David, who is joining Juventus now, was asking for a substantial wage packet, but he was on a free transfer.

“Personally, I believe the David situation reminds me of Marcus Thuram – similar situation where he was available on a free transfer, but the Premier League clubs were unmoved, but then he went to Italy and was a huge success and we see teams even now being linked with him for £50/60million.

“I think the same will be true of David – I don’t doubt he will score goals in Serie A.”

Tottenham make £70m transfer decision amid Man United Bryan Mbeumo interest as timeline emerges

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Manchester United continue to experience pressure in the face of agreeing their next summer transfer for Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo.

Having successfully signed Matheus Cunha from Wolves, the drive for more attacking recruits is in full force. As reported by the Manchester Evening News, Man United are currently chasing down Mbeumo after he indicated his preferred move was to Old Trafford.

A new striker is also on the agenda and so is a midfielder, all which can help round off Ruben Amorim's squad ahead of an incredibly important 2025/26 campaign.

But with Mbeumo identified and that all falling into place, a spanner was thrown in the works by Tottenham Hotspur's interest in the 20-goal attacker. They have since recruited Brentford boss Thomas Frank, so have a personal connection with the Cameroonian in their bid to change his mind.

Still, Man United remain confident of winning this battle and here, MEN Sport analyses the latest headlines in the saga.

Mbeumo worry

According to The Athletic, Spurs are pivoting away from an alternative attacking target amid their interest for Mbeumo.

Alongside Brentford's star man, the north Londoners have also taken notice of the 13 goals and seven assists recorded by Antoine Semenyo of Bournemouth last term.

A move to Spurs appeals to the Ghanaian though with a reported price tag of £70m, the suitors are not proceeding to strike a deal - at least at present.

Meanwhile it is said Frank and Co. are hopeful of persuading Mbeumo of giving up his desire to move to Old Trafford and join his old boss instead.

MEN Sport says: This is a blow in as much as that Spurs are limiting their own targets, narrowing their focus down to Mbeumo it seems. But, the situation remains that Mbeumo has chosen Man United and it is now up to the clubs involved to make his wish a reality. For now, Spurs can be considered a distraction rather than a true threat.

Frank influence

Fabrizio Romano has explained how Spurs' internal discussions over whether to make a play for Mbeumo began when Frank took their managerial job last week.

On what happened behind the scenes, he told GiveMeSport: "For sure, there is appreciation from Thomas Frank.

"And so it's quite obvious to discuss a target like [Bryan] Mbeumo for Tottenham, because he's one of the names they discussed internally as soon as he signed his contract as new Tottenham manager.

"It's obvious in football to see these kinds of situations."

Bryan Mbeumo transfer worry emerges for Man United as Tottenham battle nears climax

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Bryan Mbeumo transfer worry emerges for Man United as Tottenham battle nears climax - Manchester Evening News
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Manchester United face a fight with Spurs to sign top target Bryan Mbeumo

Manchester United have a fight on their hands as the summer transfer window reopens, facing the prospect of fending off Tottenham Hotspur in their pursuit of Brentford ace Bryan Mbeumo - and some fans in the Manchester Evening News comments section are worried that things might not be going to plan after the delay so far.

United are seeking to bolster a struggling attack, and the addition of Mbeumo with his 20 league goals in the past season would go some way to putting them back amongst the top clubs in the Premier League. A £55million package offer has been rejected by Brentford, who stand to make huge profit from their ace wherever he ends up going this summer.

Spurs are also in for Mbeumo, having made a £70 million offer for him as the club look to banish their own demons after a poor Premier League season. Spurs have taken on Brentford's Thomas Frank as manager after sacking Ange Postecoglou, and a link-up with Mbeumo would be an ideal way to start his time at that club.

Some fans are just about ready to give up on Mbeumo after hopes of a fast start to the transfer window seem to be fading. Reader IlSacristano says: "I wish this would be over, for better or for worse. It's a bit like Pride and Prejudice, although Elizabeth Bennett and Mr Darcy got together with far fewer words written about them than Mr Mbeumo."

Commenter Steviweavi warns about paying the old "United tax": "What we should have equally done last year and before is not overpay. Mbeumo is NOT a £70m player, if Spurs want to pay that then let them. The player can always insist he wants to play for United and no-one else of course."

Cheethamhills writes: "If Mbeumo's one and only choice isn't to come to United, then I'd rather he didn't... if it is, then he needs to get it done. United don't need to pay any price as Brentford haven't got the upper hand, Mbeumo does in his last year. He should tell them to accept the offer, or tell fans I'm staying for another season and will leave for free next year."

JKU999 is feeling bullish: "If Mbeumo wants to go from a little club to another little club all because a) His manager has gone there and b) For a fleeting moment of Champions League football, let him go. He'll never know what playing for a massive club like Manchester United is like. Good luck to him."

Navydiver writes: "Once again the ineptitude of United’s management will undoubtedly lead to Mbuemo going to Spurs. We of course are sweating and digging our heels in for 5 or 6 million when had we met the initial asking price, this deal could have been wrapped up before this Frank deal was confirmed. Way to go, United’s crack negotiators. Wasting millions on rubbish but obstinate when quick action was required!"

Others have more confidence in the club to get the right business done this summer. JustifiablySceptical says: "It's a little early to say we can't get transfers over the line. If we've still only signed Cunha by the end of the month, I'll be worried, but if we also have Mbeumo by that point, we'll have made a huge improvement to our attack. We'd also still have time to bring in players in other positions.

"Part of it is out of our hands as we need to sell several players. If we do, I'm at least now confident that we're targeting the right type of incoming. I haven't been able to say that for many years."

Nemiroff writes: "United should be bold, and put it to his people - “does he want to come to United or not”? No procrastination, no playing one against the other, yes or no. We’ve been here before many times and been played for fools. There are other targets out there that are equally as good if not better.

"United’s stock may have fallen, but they are still one of the world’s biggest clubs. If Mbuemo would rather be a big fish in a small pond, off you trot. United need players who are going to give everything for the club, and want to be here, it’s that simple."

Have your say! Are you feeling frustrated with the pace of the Mbeumo transfer? Is it time to look elsewhere? Comment below, and join in on the conversation.

Here at The Manchester Evening News, we are dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester United coverage and analysis.

Make sure you don't miss out on the latest United news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.

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Manchester United player had a role in helping Bryan Mbeumo decide on transfer

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Bryan Mbeumo still favours a move to Man United amid interest from Tottenham, now managed by Thomas Frank.

Andre Onana has advised Bryan Mbeumo to join Manchester United amid the club's focus on signing the Brentford forward.

Mbeumo wants to move to United despite late interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Onana played a role in swaying Cameroon teammate Mbeumo.

The pair were not on international duty earlier this month for Cameroon's friendlies against Uganda and Equatorial Guinea and last lined up together in the national team's World Cup qualifying win against Libya in March.

Onana is expected to stay at United despite struggling in his first two seasons at the club. United head coach Ruben Amorim enjoys a warm working relationship with the former Inter Milan goalkeeper.

United have a long history of their players using national team get-togethers to try and sway international teammates to join the club. More recently, Erik ten Hag reunited with six players at United that he coached at Ajax.

Sources say Spurs are aggressively pursuing Mbeumo following the appointment of Thomas Frank as their manager from Brentford. Frank coached Mbeumo for six years as the Bees became an established Premier League side.

United have had an offer of £45million and £10m in add-ons rejected by Brentford for Mbeumo, who is out of contract next year but there is a one-year option to extend his deal until 2027.

Mbeumo was present at the Canadian Grand Prix on Sunday and told Sky Sports he "accepts" the transfer speculation. "It is a bit new for me, I would say! I think it can be the life of a footballer and you need to accept it.

"He (Frank)'s done so much for me. He literally trusted me from the start. I think he developed the team so well. He developed me as a human and a player as well.

"So I can only wish him all the best, and I'm sure he's going to do well."

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Here at the Manchester Evening News, we're dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester United coverage and analysis.

Make sure you don't miss out on the latest United news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.

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