New Tottenham Hotspur head coach Thomas Frank has publicly endorsed Bryan Mbeumo’s decision to join Premier League rivals Manchester United, despite reports he had hoped to sign his former player for Spurs.
Mbeumo, 25, is on the cusp of completing a move from Frank’s former club Brentford to Old Trafford in a deal valued at a reported £71 million, including add-ons, according to reporting.
The Cameroon international had a standout season, scoring 20 goals, which attracted serious interest from Arsenal, Newcastle, and Tottenham, alongside United.
Frank, who recently took the managerial reins in North London, was said to have urged Spurs to challenge United for the attacker’s signature. However, Mbeumo reportedly favoured the move to Manchester.
Speaking publicly at his inaugural press conference as Spurs manager, Frank made it clear he held no bitterness over missing out, instead offering high praise for the player who thrived under his guidance at Brentford.
“Bryan, of course, is a fantastic player,” Frank said. “I have been with him for five years. I think he deserved the move, no matter where he goes. As a player I wish him all the best when you’ve been with a player for so long.”
Mbeumo is expected to undergo a medical and finalise the paperwork over the coming days before linking up with the Manchester United squad for their pre-season tour of the United States.
His arrival is seen as a key step in the Red Devils’ efforts to overhaul their attacking options.