Fletcher named Under-18s head coach

Manchester United are thrilled to announce the appointment of Darren Fletcher as the Under-18s’ head coach.

Fletcher returned to United in 2021, after spending 20 years as a player and making over 340 appearances.

Following his graduation from the Academy, Fletcher won five Premier League crowns, two League Cups, the FA Cup, the Champions League, and the FIFA Club World Cup.

Fletcher began his new post immediately, leading the group’s pre-season preparations, which included a training camp at adidas’ worldwide headquarters in Herzogenaurach, Germany, and a friendly against Queens Park Rangers at Carrington.

Darren taking charge of the team for the friendly against QPR.

Darren Fletcher said: “I am very thrilled to take on this new role and enhance my responsibility for directly developing our young players.

“I’m looking forward to working with such a talented age-group; supporting them to reach their potential and preparing them to enjoy careers at the highest level possible.”

Jason Wilcox, Director of Football, said, “We are thrilled that Darren will coach our Under-18s group. He understands what it takes to be a successful Academy graduate and has played a critical part in paving the road for so many of our young players in recent years.

“Darren’s excellent relationships across the entire staff will only increase the strong connection between the Academy and first team, further enhancing our ability to produce world-class players ready to excel at Manchester United.”

UPCOMING LIFEBLOOD SHORT

Fletcher appears in a forthcoming Lifeblood short about a special Old Trafford event where the most recent set of pupils is presented with the traditional club uniform. He spoke passionately about his experiences as a player and the honor of representing United at the Academy level.

Keep an eye on the United App and ManUtd.com to ensure you don’t miss the next thrilling release from our famous MUTV Originals series.

Major £400 million news likely amid Bryan Mbeumo-Manchester United move

Manchester United are pushing to buy Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, while the Bees face rumors about investment in the club.

Brentford owner Matthew Benham is reportedly selling a significant share in the team, as Manchester United chase Bryan Mbeumo. The Bees are reportedly in talks with a businessman and a filmmaker about a massive deal for more than £400 million.

Ruben Amorim’s team is still pursuing the Cameroonian international as the United manager seeks to strengthen his offensive lineup. United have already had two bids rejected by the London club, despite Mbeumo’s evident eagerness for a move to Old Trafford.

Negotiations are still underway, despite the deal being closed for nearly three weeks. United travel to the United States as part of their pre-season tour, and the Manchester Evening News claimed on Monday that the club is facing a race against time to acquire the forward in time to be on the aircraft for their three matches in preparation for the new Premier League season.

Meanwhile, in the capital, the 25-year-old joined his Brentford teammates as they begin week two of their own preparations.

During Mbeumo’s off-season, a lot has changed behind the scenes. Brentford’s head coach, Thomas Frank, left the club to take over at Tottenham Hotspur, and Keith Andrews was selected as his successor.

Sky News claimed yesterday that an agreement is close to being announced, with Benham selling a portion of his share in the club to Gary Lubner, the billionaire who ran Autoglass-owner Belron.

Matthew Vaughn, the director of Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels, is also expected to invest in the Bees as part of the transaction.

According to Sky News, a deal could be revealed as early as Tuesday, with one insider suggesting that up to 25% of the club’s shares will change hands.

It remains to be seen how the alteration will affect the arrangement between United and Mbeumo. Despite the growing interest in their star forward, West London chiefs appear to be relaxed.

“Bryan has garnered substantial interest. Phil Giles, director of football, stated that his current choice has been widely documented.

“He had a tremendous season, and we anticipated interest in him.

“From what I understand, he is also willing to stay at Brentford the following year if necessary. We’ve spoken with Bryan and his agents.

“It is not a given that he will depart this summer. If we get the proper offer, we might be able to make a deal, but there’s only so much we can say right now.”

Manchester United Handed Triple Transfer Update as Bryan Mbeumo Talks Continue

Manchester United’s summer transfer activity has intensified as the club receives a triple update concerning key targets while negotiations over a possible deal for Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo remain active. With the new season drawing closer, decisions must be made quickly, and the club’s hierarchy has been busy navigating multiple fronts.

Talks for Bryan Mbeumo have progressed over the past week, with the Cameroonian attacker reportedly open to joining United. His impressive form last season for Brentford, combined with his ability to play across the front three, has made him a prime candidate to bolster Erik ten Hag’s attacking options. United’s interest appears serious, and internal discussions have already taken place regarding the financial package required.

However, Brentford remain reluctant to lose one of their most influential players unless their valuation is met. United have already seen an opening proposal turned away, but sources suggest a new offer could be submitted soon. Mbeumo, for his part, is said to be intrigued by the opportunity to play European football and take on a new challenge at one of England’s biggest clubs.

While the Mbeumo situation unfolds, United have also received fresh updates on two other potential arrivals. One of those involves a long-standing midfield target, whose future has taken a new twist after a contract standoff at his current club. With time ticking, his representatives are now inviting formal offers, and United are believed to be among the favourites.

In defence, Manchester United have been given renewed hope in their pursuit of a centre-back. Injuries and inconsistency last season exposed vulnerabilities in the backline, and the club has prioritised adding a reliable option. Recent developments suggest a rival club has cooled their interest, potentially giving United a clearer path.

The triple update signals a crucial phase in United’s transfer strategy. Under the guidance of INEOS and their revamped football structure, the club is attempting to balance long-term planning with the urgency of improving the current squad. This summer is seen as vital to maintaining progress under Ten Hag.

Despite financial caution, the club remains committed to supporting the manager. That includes continuing talks with Brentford for Mbeumo, as well as maintaining parallel discussions with other targets to avoid being caught off guard. The idea is to stay flexible, allowing United to pivot quickly if one deal collapses.

Fans are growing increasingly curious about how these talks will unfold. Mbeumo has already emerged as a fan-favourite candidate on social media, with many supporters eager to see a proven Premier League player arrive who can contribute immediately and offer versatility.

Within the club, the Mbeumo deal is also seen as a statement. It would demonstrate a shift towards targeting established domestic talents who don’t require adaptation time. His work ethic and consistency make him a strong fit for the demands of Old Trafford.

The other two updates also come with growing optimism. The midfielder in question is described as technically gifted and experienced at the highest level, while the defender has impressed United scouts for months. Their arrivals would address key weaknesses that undermined the team last season.

A complicating factor remains outgoings. United are hoping to move on several squad players to free up wages and create space for new signings. Some departures could help accelerate negotiations for incoming transfers, especially as talks reach advanced stages.

Ten Hag has communicated his preferences to the recruitment team, favouring players with tactical intelligence, discipline, and the ability to contribute across multiple positions. All three targets appear to align with that vision, suggesting strong synergy between the manager and club leadership.

For Mbeumo, the appeal of joining Manchester United includes not only the club’s size but also the chance to play under a demanding coach known for improving individuals. His trajectory at Brentford shows he is ready for the next step.

Reports indicate that the player has yet to submit a transfer request, but his openness to the move may influence Brentford’s willingness to negotiate. If United meet the asking price, Brentford are expected to cooperate, provided replacements are lined up.

While Tottenham and Arsenal have also shown interest in Mbeumo, Manchester United seem to have taken the lead in talks. Their direct approach and promise of a leading role may be tipping the balance in their favour.

The midfielder’s situation could be resolved quickly if United submit an acceptable offer. His club is prepared to sell, but only if their valuation is respected. United must now decide whether to match it or risk losing out to another suitor.

The centre-back target has entered the final year of his contract, adding pressure on his club to sell rather than risk losing him for free. That could work in United’s favour if they act decisively.

As negotiations continue, it’s clear that Manchester United are laying the groundwork for a potentially transformative window. The triple update shows that multiple avenues are being explored in parallel, a strategy designed to ensure at least some deals are completed even if others stall.

The coming weeks will be critical. If the club can secure two or three priority signings before the season begins, confidence will grow that Ten Hag can take the team to a new level. For now, United fans wait with cautious optimism, hoping the Mbeumo saga ends in celebration, not frustration.

Bryan Mbeumo transfer news: Manchester United hopeful of finalizing deal for Brentford forward in time for preseason tour of the US – Sky Sports

Manchester United are confident of signing Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo in time for their summer tour of the US; Marcus Rashford has returned to the club’s training ground; Real Betis is still trying for a deal to capture Antony; Juve and Napoli are interested in Jadon Sancho.

Manchester United are hopeful of completing a deal to recruit Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo in time for the forward to participate in their pre-season tour of the United States.

United’s US tour begins on July 26 with a game versus West Ham in New Jersey.

According to Sky Sports News, United is cautiously optimistic about reaching a deal and discussing the next steps internally.

There is still a valuation gap, but United are close to the overall sum Brentford wants, which is reported to be £65 million; however, there is still work to be done on the structure, as the west London club wants the majority, if not all, of the fee paid up front.

Mbeumo has made it clear that he only wants to move to United, and personal terms are thought to have been agreed upon in principle.

Last week, Bees sporting director Phil Giles stated to Sky Sports News that Mbeumo is willing to stay at the club if a deal is not “right for Brentford”.

A look at Bryan Mbeumo’s greatest Premier League goals as Manchester United launch a second bid for the Brentford forward

Rashford is back at United, but training away from the main team.

United are still working on outgoings, and Marcus Rashford has returned to the club’s training ground at Carrington, despite being given more time to decide on his future.

The striker is training separately from the first team and utilizing the club’s medical and rehabilitation facilities.

Speaking on the Transfer Talk Podcast, Sam Tighe discusses whether Marcus Rashford could still be a key player for Barcelona

Rashford has expressed interest in a move to Barcelona, but the club is also considering other options, including Nico Williams and Luis Diaz.

Williams has accepted a new contract at Athletic Club, while Liverpool has rejected all approaches for Diaz.

Betis is still pushing to sign Antony.

United are willing to move Antony, while Real Betis are still interested in the winger.

Talks between the clubs have focused on a permanent deal, but it is believed that another loan has been proposed.

However, in order for United to consider another loan this summer, they are expected to attach a buyout clause.

The Betis president has conceded that a permanent contract is tough to achieve considering the financial implications.

Antony impressed on a direct loan at Betis in the second half of last season, netting nine goals in 24 games.

Juventus and Napoli remain interested in Sancho.

Meanwhile, Juventus and Napoli are still interested in signing United striker Jadon Sancho.

United has informed both teams of the sum required to sign Sancho, which is estimated to be £25 million, and the clubs are currently discussing terms with the England international’s representatives.

As players begin to return to Carrington training ground, Sky Sports’ Ben Ransom discusses the ins and outs at Manchester United and how Ruben Amorim can build the squad in the way he wants

Juve has other objectives, including Porto’s Francsico Conceicao, but Sky in Italy reports that the Portuguese international is their top pick.

Conceicao was on a season-long loan at Turin last season. His release clause is €30m till July 15, which Porto wants paid in full up front. However, it increases to €45m on July 16.