Aksel Kryhlmand
he’ll have to sacrifice more than just loyalty to his current club
Bryan Mbeumo’s future hangs in the balance as two of England’s biggest clubs battle for his signature, but should the Brentford star choose Tottenham Hotspur, he’ll have to sacrifice more than just loyalty to his current club. He may also have to give up his iconic shirt number.
Dream Season Sparks Summer Scramble
The 25-year-old Cameroon international is coming off the most prolific campaign of his career, having scored 20 Premier League goals and registered eight assists for Brentford in 2024/25. His breakout season has turned him into one of the most coveted attackers on the market.
While Manchester United made the early running with a bid reportedly worth £45 million plus £10 million in add-ons, Tottenham have emerged as serious contenders, bolstered by their Champions League qualification and Mbeumo’s strong personal relationship with new Spurs manager Thomas Frank, who coached him at Brentford.
Reuniting with Frank, But at a Price
Sources close to the situation suggest that Mbeumo has warmed to the idea of rejoining Frank in North London despite early signs that he preferred a switch to Old Trafford. Spurs’ superior European offering and a more familiar tactical setup have reportedly nudged him closer to Hotspur Way.
But there’s a snag. Mbeumo’s beloved No. 19 shirt, which he has worn throughout his career from Troyes to Brentford, is already taken at Tottenham, by Dominic Solanke.
That number is currently not in use at Manchester United, which could hand the Red Devils a subtle but sentimental edge in negotiations. Unless Solanke departs or agrees to swap, Mbeumo would have to select an alternative number if he completes a move to Spurs. Options currently available include 12, 18, and 25.
Transfer Dynamics and United’s Diminishing Lead
Though United remain confident of landing Mbeumo, Spurs’ pursuit is gathering momentum. Their Champions League participation, Europa League title win, and Mbeumo’s familiarity with Frank’s methods could be decisive, especially as the player reportedly sees North London as the better fit for his development and long-term ambitions.
The lure of immediate silverware is also real. Frank’s first competitive match in charge of Spurs will be against Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup on August 13. That could offer Mbeumo a rare chance to lift a continental trophy weeks after signing.
Building on Postecoglou’s Foundations
Thomas Frank has been publicly respectful of his predecessor Ange Postecoglou, praising the culture and success the Australian brought during his tenure.
He will forever be a legend at Tottenham,” Frank said. “I’m very humble about the foundations Ange has built. Now we need to do our best to become serial winners.
Adding a high-impact, versatile forward like Mbeumo, whether in his favourite shirt number or not, would be a major step in that direction.
Number 19 or Not, Mbeumo Must Decide
As Tottenham and Manchester United continue their tug-of-war over Mbeumo, the player faces a unique mix of footballing and emotional decisions. Will the promise of Champions League football and a reunion with Thomas Frank outweigh the comforts of a preferred shirt number and the pull of Old Trafford?
For now, the spotlight remains firmly on Mbeumo, and wherever he lands, expectations will be sky-high.