Bryan Mbeumo has praised Newcastle United after coming close to being the St James’ Park party pooper for Brentford on Wednesday night.
The Cameroon star has long been linked with a move to the Magpies. The forward has been scouted extensively by Newcastle’s recruitment chiefs, including Steve Nickson, ahead of a potential summer transfer.
The winger scored his 16th goal of the season when he netted an equaliser from the penalty spot at St James’ Park. Mbeumo continued his 100% record for the club by sending Nick Pope the wrong way after Yoane Wissa was fouled by the United goalkeeper.
That goal cancelled out Alexander Isak’s opener, but Sandro Tonali ensured the home side picked up all three points with a sensational winner. The result ended Brentford’s fine away run and sent Newcastle up to fifth spot in the Premier League table.
The build-up to the game had been dominated by Carabao Cup celebrations, but also talk about Newcaste’s interest in Mbeumo. The Magpies are expected to make a move for the 25-year-old in the summer, with a bid of around £60million believed to be enough to land the forward, who has also attracted interest from Liverpool.
Mbeumo, speaking after the game, was highly flattering of Newcastle. He told reporters: “It is a hard one tonight and we deserved more.
“It was good performance but at the end it was not enough. I think we knew it was going to be a tough game against a very good side and at the end it was a bit frustrating. It is hard to take.
“We knew it is important to get the points away. It is always tough to come here. It is really tight and we are going to give it our best game by game and see where it takes us.”
Newcastle remain in the hunt for a right-winger after the departure of Miguel Almiron in the transfer window to Atlanta United. Jacob Murphy’s form has been excellent this season, but he remains the only natural option on that flank.
Murphy’s withdrawal in the second half against Brentford saw Harvey Barnes switch to the right side, with Joe Willock playing on the left. Anthony Gordon should return to the side against Leicester City after his three-game ban.
Mbeumo has been described as the ‘ideal’ summer signing for Newcastle. Brentford are believed to want a hefty fee for the player, however, which could result in a bidding war.
