Man United eye Bryan Mbeumo alternative as unlikely transfer 'takes step closer'

After a brief pause, Manchester United's summer transfer plans kick back into gear today as the window reopens.

The unprecedented early transfer window for the FIFA Club World Cup gave United the opportunity to sign Matheus Cunha earlier than they had anticipated. He has already completed his media obligations and is locked in for 2025/26 and beyond.

Next up for the Reds is to complete the remainder of their business and, in truth, there is a lot to do before the first game of the season. Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo is the top priority this week and while there are some doubts about whether his head has been turned by Tottenham or not, our latest look at the media headlines suggests that United are eyeing themselves an alternative.

According to ESPN, United have identified Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze as an alternative to Mbeumo should they be unable to complete a deal for the Cameroonian. While Spurs' increasing interest is a factor, it is claimed that CEO Omar Berrada is determined not to pay the 'United Tax' and overspend on the forward.

Last week, there were reports that Tottenham were willing to splash £70m on Mbeumo.

What MEN Sport says: "It is refreshing to see United not being taken for chumps in the transfer window so far. They have been guilty of splashing obscene amounts of money on mediocrity before and while there is no suggestion that Mbeumo is that, there is still a ceiling to what United are willing to pay.

"As for alternatives, Eze already has the seal of approval from one United legend. Paul Scholes is a fan of the Palace man and it is easy to see why. He was arguably their star man last season, he is direct, quick and unlike Mbeumo is a natural in the more central position. The Reds would be on to a