Thomas Frank has dismissed the idea that Arsenal or Liverpool might pursue Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo during the January transfer window with a light-hearted response.
The 25-year-old Cameroonian forward is enjoying a remarkable season, netting 10 goals and providing two assists in the Premier League so far. His performances have reportedly attracted interest from top clubs, including Arsenal and Liverpool.
However, Brentford manager Frank is adamant about retaining Mbeumo, issuing a clear warning to interested parties. Speaking at a press conference ahead of Brentford’s match against Arsenal, Frank said, “Those clubs in January [laughs]? I’d say, ‘good luck’! We love Bryan, and he loves playing here. He’s had a fantastic season, so nothing will happen.”
Mbeumo joined Brentford in the summer of 2019 from Troyes in France and has since amassed over 200 appearances, scoring 60 goals for the club.
With just 18 months remaining on his current deal at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium, speculation about his future has grown. Former Liverpool forward Emile Heskey even suggested Mbeumo as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, who could depart Anfield in six months if a new deal isn’t reached.
Speaking to FourFourTwo last month, Heskey shared his admiration for the forward: “Bryan Mbeumo is a player I rate highly. He’s brilliant on the ball, can beat defenders, and scores regularly for a team not competing at the very top. In a top side, he could score even more goals.
“Replacing someone like Mo Salah is tough. Salah delivers 20 goals a season consistently, along with 30-plus contributions, and that’s special.”
Bryan Mbeumo has scored ten goals so far this season ( Image: Getty Images)
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“Nobody else in the league is giving you those numbers, in terms of both goals and assists. So Liverpool have a huge job on their hands in finding someone who can replace Salah when he leaves – whenever that might be.”
While Arsenal have been linked with a move for Mbeumo, it already appears that they have picked out an alternative should they fail to sign the forward. The Gunners have also been linked with Wolves star Matheus Cunha, who is also in the midst of a stunning campaign.
The Brazilian has netted 10 goals and notched four assists for the Midlands side this season but he could yet face an FA ban. He was hit with a charge for misconduct after an altercation with an Ipswich member of staff.