No matter what Brentford say publicly, Bryan Mbeumo to Manchester United feels more likely by the day.
United's biggest competition for Mbeumo's signature comes from Tottenham Hotspur, who hired former Brentford boss Thomas Frank to replace Ange Postecoglou this summer. Frank helped Mbeumo enjoy a breakout, 20-goal season for the Bees. Add in the promise of Champions League football, and it's easy to see why a move to the North London club might tempt Mbeumo.
It quickly became obvious that Mbeumo's preference was to join United, not Spurs, and that couldn't be clearer now.
According to football journalist Fabrizio Romano, Tottenham have opened talks with West Ham over a transfer for forward Mohammed Kudus.
Spurs' interest in Kudus all but confirms they have dropped out of the race to sign Mbeumo.
Tottenham's latest move is a strong indication that Bryan Mbeumo is heading to Man United
Kudus has experience playing across the front three, but his primary position is on the right wing, which is where Mbeumo would've played for Tottenham.
Spurs also have Brennan Johnson in that position. Kudus has seemingly become their top target in that position, not Mbeumo.
If we continue to read the tea leaves, even more signs of Mbeumo-to-United become clear. While Brentford might say publicly that they don't need to sell their star goal-scorer, their actions speak far louder than words, with reports indicating they have signed Feyenoord forward Antoni Milambo. He is likely Mbeumo's replacement.
United need to get a move on if they plan to bring Mbeumo in for the full preseason, but all signs keep pointing toward the deal happening.
Ruben Amorim's side still needs a lot of work in the transfer window, and it may take some sales to free up funds to make it happen, but Mbeumo joining Matheus Cunha is a home-run start.
We all nervously await Fabrizio Romano's famous "Here We Go," and it now feels closer than ever.