Newcastle United's interest in Bryan Mbeumo is no secret as the Magpies begin to prepare for an important summer of trading. The Brentford winger, one of the hottest properties in the Premier League, is high of many sides' shopping lists despite a hefty price tag.
Mbeumo's future in west London has been up in the air for some time. As such, manager Thomas Frank has hinted at a potential exit this summer - a bold move as the suitors queue up.
“That’s a good question. I am the head coach, I want all of my best players to stay forever," Frank responded. "I know that Bryan is very happy being here at Brentford. He is thriving, he is doing well and playing fantastic.
“What happens in the future? I don’t know. I’ve said many times we are a selling club but also to reinforce that there are probably [only] 10 clubs in the world who aren’t selling clubs. But I’m very happy he is here and also convinced that Bryan will still be happy here at the football club.
Frank would go on to add: “I’ve said many times - we are a selling club. But at the same time we have to reinforce that there are 10 clubs in the world who aren’t selling clubs.”
Mbeumo has enjoyed his best season in red and white, helping himself to 18 goals and six assists in 34 Premier League appearances. These mind-blowing stats have arrived off the back of a whirlwind summer in which the player himself openly admitted he was open to moving.
Speaking to French outlet L'Equipe, Mbeumo said: “I have spent five years at Brentford, at a club that has allowed me to grow and pass a milestone but yes, I would like to play in the biggest competitions, at the best clubs. It is tantalising to see some big clubs interested in me. We will see."
Newcastle are on the cusp of reaching those 'big' competitions Mbeumo speaks of, with a grand desire of strengthening the right-side of Eddie Howe's attack. It looks like - after two successive summers of uncertainty - the writing is on the wall for the winger in terms of finally departing Brentford - the only question is who will prove the lucky side that captures his signature?
