Bryan Mbuemo wants ‘highly rated Prem star’ he sees as his ‘brother’ to join Man Utd

Bryan Mbeumo is hoping to be Manchester United’s secret weapon as Ruben Amorim could look to call on the winger’s help as he tries to land his priority transfer target

Manchester United’s summer signing Bryan Mbeumo is attempting to convince his international team-mate Carlos Baleba to follow him to Old Trafford.

Ruben Amorim is keen to strengthen his midfield options and has been connected with a move for Baleba since the summer window. United had previously contacted Brighton regarding a potential transfer for Baleba during the summer, but were put off by Seagulls chairman Tony Bloom’s resolute position. “I don’t think Baleba was a saga,” he told the Argus.

“There was interest from Manchester United, and we said that he wasn’t available this summer and they went away. So we’ve had many bigger sagas in the past.

“But Carlos Baleba, his improvement has been immense. Massively important player to this football club, and just delighted that he’s with us for this season.”

Despite failing to reach his previous standards at Brighton this campaign, Baleba continues to be a target for United, though there is speculation that Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton could now be their main focus.

Nevertheless, as initially reported by The Sun, Mbeumo is still working hard to engineer a switch for Baleba to Old Trafford. The duo, both representing Cameroon internationally, have been bonding during their time together, with Mbeumo allegedly adopting a ‘big brother’ approach with the 21-year-old.

Both players appeared in the 2-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Mauritius on Wednesday, October 8. They were also involved in the 0-0 stalemate with Angola on Monday.

The outcome saw Cameroon secure second place behind Cape Verde in their World Cup qualification group.

Their next challenge is a qualification play-off against DR Congo next month. If they triumph in that semi-final, they’ll face either Nigeria or Gabon in the final.

It’s suggested that a potential transfer for Baleba to United is more likely to happen next summer rather than in the upcoming January window.

As the Premier League gears up to restart this weekend, both players will be heading back to their respective clubs. However, Mbeumo will have another chance to influence Baleba next month when Cameroon face off against DR Congo in a World Cup qualifier.