HERE WE GO: Manchester United cancelled Bryan Mbeumo’s transfer, agreed personal a huge transfer fee to sign a better option who’s currently undergoing his medical to join the Reds

Manchester United’s need for new additions this summer is hugely evident after their failures across all competitions throughout the 2024/25 campaign.
The Red Devils only managed to finish in 15th place in the Premier League, losing 18 of their 38 matches and only registering a total of 42 points – their lowest since the division’s formation.
Ruben Amorim has the chance to make the changes he desires this window, needing to recruit the right players for his 3-4-2-1 system at Old Trafford.
He’s struggled to make the desired impact after taking the reins back in November, registering a 40% win rate and falling at the last hurdle, suffering a defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final.
However, if he is to transform the club’s fortunes in 2025/26, he needs to be backed by the hierarchy in his quest for success, with the transfer market opening up numerous opportunities for additions.
The latest on United’s hunt for new signings this window
After Matheus Cunha’s arrival this summer, United have shown no signs of slowing down, with Ollie Watkins one of the latest players linked with a move to join the club.
The England international is a man in demand this summer after scoring 17 times for Aston Villa last campaign, but his £60m asking price could prove to be a stumbling block for Amorim’s side.
However, moves have been made elsewhere, with a deal seemingly progressing for the signature of Botafogo goalkeeper John Victor, according to Brazilian outfit Globo.
Their report claims that the Red Devils are in talks over a move for the 29-year-old, who could be available for a fee in the region of £5.8m during the off-season.
It also states that Amorim’s men see the shot-stopper as an excellent option for their number one position, but they could face potential competition from fellow English side Everton this window.
Why United’s latest target would be a more important signing than Mbeumo
Bryan Mbeumo is a player who’s been massively linked with a move to join United this summer, with Amorim’s side having two separate offers rejected for the Brentford star.
The latest was in the region of £55m plus £7.5m in potential add-ons, but the Bees are holding out for £65m to part ways with their star talent during the off-season.
The interest in the 25-year-old is no surprise, given his record of 20 goals in the 2024/25 campaign, the most of any player in the division whose side didn’t achieve European football.
However, a move for Victor this window would arguably be a more important addition for the Red Devils, offering the side an upgrade on current number one Andre Onana.
The Cameroonian has often been culpable for numerous errors in recent seasons, leading to serious questions being asked about his long-term future at the club.
However, when comparing his stats with those of the current United shot-stopper, Victor has managed to outperform him in numerous key areas – possibly being a bargain given his current price tag.
The Botafogo star, who’s been labelled “incredible” by one analyst, achieved a better clean sheet percentage last season, whilst also making more saves per 90 – handing the side the needed confidence between the sticks.
He’s also conceded fewer goals per 90, whilst claiming more crosses, offering a need presence and a player who can command his 18-yard box, which could bolster the defensive unit.
Victor’s ability to play out from the back could also massively improve Amorim’s side, giving them the option to build and dominate rather than constantly going long and handing the ball to the opposition.
£5.8m in today’s market is a bargain, especially for a player who would offer a huge upgrade on the options currently at the manager’s disposal at the Theatre of Dreams.
There’s no denying that Mbeumo would improve one area of the pitch, but the goalkeeping department is one of the most crucial, with Victor having the ability to improve the current situation tenfold.