Manchester United Make Move for Mohammed Kudus in Sancho Swap Bid as Mbeumo Deal Advances
Manchester United have kickstarted their summer transfer business in decisive fashion, with one major signing confirmed and bold moves underway for attacking reinforcements. According to multiple reports, the Red Devils have made an attempt to sign West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus by offering Jadon Sancho in a swap deal. Meanwhile, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo has emerged as the most likely new arrival at Old Trafford in the coming weeks.
✅ Matheus Cunha Signs as First Summer Transfer
United’s first confirmed signing of the summer is Matheus Cunha, who joins from Wolverhampton Wanderers after the club activated his £62.5 million release clause. The Brazilian attacker, who impressed in the 2023/24 Premier League season, was eager to make the move to Old Trafford despite the absence of European football.
The 25-year-old is expected to play as a central attacking midfielder or support striker under new head coach Ruben Amorim, who is overseeing a squad overhaul aimed at returning the club to title contention.
🔁 Kudus Swap Bid with Jadon Sancho Rejected by West Ham
United’s next target is Mohammed Kudus, a versatile attacking midfielder who can play on the right wing or as a No.10. According to CaughtOffside, the Red Devils initiated talks with West Ham and proposed a swap deal involving Jadon Sancho, who is due to return to United after a season-long loan at Chelsea.
However, West Ham have rejected the proposal, valuing Kudus at £60 million (€71m/$81m)—significantly more than Sancho’s current market value. Despite a promising stint at Chelsea last season (5 goals and 10 assists in 42 games), Sancho’s £300,000-per-week wage demands and inconsistent performances have seen his valuation plummet to around £20–25 million.
Chelsea had the option to sign Sancho permanently but declined, instead paying a £5 million penalty fee to terminate the purchase clause early.
Also read: Why Chelsea are facing UEFA sanctions alongside Barcelona and other Premier League giants
🎯 Bryan Mbeumo Set to Join United Amid Kudus Uncertainty
With the Kudus deal stalling, Bryan Mbeumo has emerged as Manchester United’s most realistic target. The Brentford winger, who scored consistently in the Premier League despite the Bees’ struggles, has agreed personal terms with United. The player has reportedly informed Brentford that he is only interested in joining the Red Devils this summer.
Brentford are holding firm on their £60 million asking price, and United are now working on agreeing a fee. Mbeumo’s arrival would bring pace, creativity, and versatility to Amorim’s front line.
🧠 Amorim’s Tactical Shift: Fernandes to Drop Deeper?
With Cunha and Mbeumo potentially occupying the advanced playmaking roles behind a striker, United captain Bruno Fernandes could drop into a box-to-box No.8 role, adding control and vision to deeper midfield areas.
Fernandes, who has confirmed rejecting a £700,000-a-week offer from Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal, is determined to stay in Europe and lead United’s charge for silverware.
📝 Summary: United’s 2024/25 Attack Shaping Up
- ✅ IN: Matheus Cunha (Wolves) – £62.5m
- 🔄 TARGET: Mohammed Kudus (West Ham) – swap with Sancho rejected
- 🎯 LIKELY INCOMING: Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford) – personal terms agreed, fee being negotiated
- ❌ OUTGOING: Jadon Sancho – swap deal failed, future uncertain
- 🧠 TACTICAL ADJUSTMENT: Fernandes to play deeper No.8 role
With the club prioritizing a fluid and attacking system under Amorim, expect at least one more creative player to arrive before the pre-season begins. United are also expected to offload several players, with Sancho, Anthony Martial, and Donny van de Beek among those likely to depart.
Manchester United Make Move for Mohammed Kudus in Sancho Swap Bid as Mbeumo Deal Advances