£70m Newcastle target now admits he absolutely loves playing at St James’ Park
Brentford’s dynamic winger Bryan Mbeumo has sent Newcastle United fans into a frenzy after naming St James’ Park as one of his favorite Premier League stadiums – despite his miserable record on Tyneside.
The 24-year-old attacker, valued at £70 million ahead of the summer transfer window, made the surprising admission during an interview with Pro Direct Soccer that’s sure to intensify speculation about a potential move to the Magpies.
When asked to name his preferred grounds, Mbeumo bypassed Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium entirely, instead selecting Everton’s Goodison Park and Newcastle’s iconic St James’ Park. “Oh, I really like Everton and Newcastle as well,” the Cameroon international revealed with a smile that will delight the Toon Army.
His admiration for the raucous Tyneside atmosphere suggests he wouldn’t need convincing about a potential switch, even as other Premier League clubs circle for his signature.
The irony? Mbeumo’s performances at St James’ Park tell a completely different story. In four visits with Brentford, he’s suffered three defeats, managed just one draw, and scored a solitary goal – hardly the stats of a player who dominates on Tyneside.
Yet his acknowledgment that Newcastle’s home remains one of the league’s most intimidating venues speaks volumes about the respect he holds for the club and its passionate supporters.
Eddie Howe’s side have reportedly identified Mbeumo as a prime summer target to bolster their attacking options. The French-born winger has enjoyed a career-best season with 18 goals and 6 assists, proving equally comfortable operating on either flank or through the middle.
His versatility and explosive pace make him an ideal fit for Newcastle’s high-octane style, while his Premier League experience means he could hit the ground running.
What makes Mbeumo’s comments particularly intriguing is the psychological insight they provide. Most players dread visiting St James’ Park given its reputation as one of England’s most hostile away days.
That Mbeumo not only embraces the challenge but lists it among his favorite destinations suggests he possesses the mentality Newcastle crave as they build a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.
The winger’s contract situation adds another layer of intrigue. While Brentford will demand a premium fee for their star asset, Mbeumo’s public appreciation of Newcastle’s stadium could give the Magpies an edge in negotiations.
Unlike other targets who might need persuading about the club’s project or location, Mbeumo appears already sold on the electric matchday experience.
For Newcastle supporters, the interview provides tantalizing evidence that their club’s resurgence under Saudi ownership is changing perceptions across the Premier League.
Where once top players might have hesitated about moving north, now elite talents like Mbeumo are openly praising the club’s infrastructure and atmosphere.
As the summer window approaches, this unexpected endorsement from one of Brentford’s crown jewels could prove significant. While Mbeumo’s stats at St James’ Park might not impress, his willingness to embrace its challenges suggests he’s exactly the type of character who could thrive there in black and white.
With Champions League football potentially on offer and a manager renowned for developing attacking players, this love affair with Tyneside might just be getting started.
One thing’s certain – if Newcastle do secure Mbeumo’s signature, they’ll be getting a player who already understands what it means to perform under the bright lights of one of football’s most atmospheric cathedrals. And that intangible connection could prove priceless as the Magpies look to establish themselves among England’s elite.