New Liverpool Manager Keen to Sign Bryan Mbeumo
Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo could be on the move during the transfer window (Photo by Rob Newell – CameraSport via Getty Images).
Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot, is eager to make Bryan Mbeumo one of his first signings this summer. Despite Mbeumo’s relatively modest goal record, there is strong precedent for Liverpool signing players with similar output and then seeing them flourish. Diogo Jota, for example, arrived from Wolves with potential and has since significantly upped his game at Anfield.
Like Mbeumo, Jota’s initial Premier League stats were solid but not spectacular. Jota scored nine goals in 33 appearances during Wolves’ first season back in the top flight, followed by seven in 34 league games the next season. His move to Liverpool saw him net 56 times in 145 matches. This tally, however, doesn’t fully capture his impact due to injury setbacks that have intermittently sidelined him since his arrival.
Jota has been prolific whenever he has been fit, though he has missed substantial periods each season. At one point, he went a year without scoring due to a particularly dry spell, influenced by injuries and inconsistent availability. Nevertheless, his overall contributions have been invaluable when he is on the pitch.
Mbeumo, in contrast, has had fewer injury issues. His only significant setback was an ankle injury that sidelined him for 15 games between December and March last season. When fit, Mbeumo could potentially replicate Jota’s impact at Liverpool. The 24-year-old winger has scored nine goals in each of the past two Premier League seasons—more than Liverpool’s Luis Diaz last season—demonstrating his potential.
Slot believes that with the right environment and better service from Liverpool’s elite players, Mbeumo could elevate his game significantly. His ability to play primarily off the right-hand side and cut in on his left foot makes him a valuable asset, particularly as a rotation option for Mohamed Salah. Salah’s injury and form issues in the latter part of the campaign highlighted the need for a reliable alternative, and Mbeumo fits the bill.
Liverpool’s interest, reported by French outlet L’Equipe, suggests they are prepared to meet Brentford’s $63 million asking price. Mbeumo’s acquisition would not only provide depth but also potentially unlock a higher level of performance, similar to what Jota has achieved. Slot is keen to make this move a priority, ensuring Liverpool has the attacking reinforcements needed for the upcoming season.