Manchester United’s Summer Rebuild Under Rúben Amorim Faces Early Frustrations Amid Transfer StalemateManchester United have officially kicked off their preparations for the 2025/26 Premier League campaign, with players returning to the club’s Carrington training complex and newly appointed head coach Rúben Amorim taking charge of pre-season planning.
With just over five weeks remaining before their highly anticipated season opener against Arsenal at Old Trafford, the atmosphere around the club is a mix of optimism and growing concern.
While Amorim has wasted no time immersing himself in the task of reshaping the squad, United’s momentum in the transfer market appears to have slowed dramatically after an initial burst of activity.
Early Statement with Cunha Deal, But Progress Has StalledManchester United made headlines early in the summer window by securing the signature of Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a deal worth £62.5 million.
The move was widely viewed as a statement of intent from the club — a clear indication that Amorim and the United hierarchy were committed to reinforcing the squad with dynamic, attacking talent.
Cunha is expected to play a pivotal role in Amorim’s system, bringing flair, pace, and finishing ability to the forward line. However, despite this early momentum, transfer activity has since hit a frustrating standstill.
Bryan Mbeumo Saga Dragging OnAt the center of this stagnation is United’s pursuit of Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo, a player believed to be high on Amorim’s list of priorities.
The 25-year-old enjoyed a breakout Premier League campaign last season, netting 20 goals — a tally that outshone every single member of United’s current attacking unit.
United initially submitted a bid in the region of £55 million, followed by an improved offer exceeding £60 million. Despite Mbeumo reportedly agreeing to personal terms and expressing a strong desire to join United, Brentford have raised their asking price, and the club has yet to respond with a third offer.
Talks appear to have cooled, and without further negotiation, the transfer remains in limbo.Financial Roadblocks: Sales Yet to MaterializeOne of the key challenges hampering Manchester United’s ability to push forward with transfers is their lack of outgoing business.
So far, no significant permanent departures have been confirmed, leaving the club struggling to meet Financial Fair Play requirements necessary to sanction new signings.
Players such as Casemiro, Jadon Sancho, and Mason Greenwood are understood to be available for transfer, but no deals have been finalized.
This failure to generate funds through player sales is directly impacting the club’s pursuit of other major targets, including Benfica midfielder João Neves, Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt, and Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee.
Pre-Season Plans Hang in the BalanceWith the pre-season tour fast approaching — including fixtures against Leeds in Stockholm and a series of high-profile matches in the United States — Rúben Amorim is hoping to have a more complete squad in place before the team’s departure.
However, unless United can unlock a breakthrough in the Mbeumo negotiations and accelerate the sale of fringe players, Amorim may be forced to begin pre-season preparations without the key additions he considers vital to the club’s success this season.Conclusion: Pressure Mounting Behind the ScenesManchester United began the summer with clarity, ambition, and a clear vision under Rúben Amorim.
Yet, despite a promising start, their transfer campaign has slowed considerably. With the new season drawing closer and expectations running high, the club’s hierarchy faces increasing pressure to deliver results off the pitch before the action resumes on it.
Without swift and decisive action in the transfer market, Amorim’s plans to rebuild and compete may be hindered before the first whistle of the new campaign is even blown.
