Manchester United Internal ‘Concerns’ Emerge as £71m Star Bryan Mbeumo Hits Goal Drought While INEOS Targets Left-Back Reinforcement

Manchester United is monitoring Bryan Mbeumo’s dip in form while INEOS targets a £52m move for Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly to compete with Luke Shaw.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 29, 2026, 9:57 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Football365

The Mid-Season Form Slump of Bryan Mbeumo

Bryan Mbeumo’s transition to Old Trafford, which began with a seamless integration following his £71m move from Brentford, has hit its first significant roadblock. After an explosive start to the 2025/26 campaign—netting 10 goals and 3 assists in 27 appearances—the 26-year-old forward is currently navigating a six-game goal drought in the Premier League. According to former United chief scout Mick Brown, there are growing internal "concerns" that Mbeumo is currently "nowhere near" the elite standard he set during the autumn months. This dip in output has coincided with a period of high tactical demand under interim boss Michael Carrick, leading to increased scrutiny of the forward's recent contributions.

Internal Friction and Substitution Reactions

Beyond the statistical decline, Mbeumo’s conduct during recent fixtures has reportedly raised eyebrows within the coaching staff. During a high-stakes encounter against Aston Villa, the forward reacted visibly with anger after being substituted, a move Mick Brown described as "not the best look" for a marquee player. While the club does not view this as a major disciplinary issue, the combination of a lack of goals and public frustration has created a narrative of unrest. Supporters and analysts alike have noted that while Mbeumo's overall work rate remains respectable, his clinical edge has ebbing away at a critical juncture in United's hunt for Champions League qualification.

INEOS Prioritizes Left-Back ‘Cover and Competition’

As the summer transfer window approaches, the INEOS leadership has reportedly shifted its focus toward stabilizing the defensive unit. Journalist Pete O’Rourke reports that Manchester United is actively planning to sign a new left-back to provide "cover and competition" for Luke Shaw. Despite Shaw enjoying a resurgent and productive season, his historical injury record and the nearing expiration of his current contract have made the position a strategic vulnerability. The goal is to secure a high-caliber alternative who can push Shaw for the starting role while ensuring the team’s tactical structure remains intact during periods of rotation.