Newcastle could now have the last laugh over Bryan Mbeumo and Man United after development

Newcastle United appear poised to turn the tables on both Bryan Mbeumo and Manchester United after a recent twist in the transfer market.

Earlier this summer, the Magpies were in the race to sign Mbeumo from Brentford, but the forward’s personal preferences brought any potential move to Tyneside to a halt.

Mbeumo reportedly favoured a switch to Manchester United, and Newcastle, unable to match either his demands or his desire, shifted their focus elsewhere.

That led to the swift pursuit of Anthony Elanga, who is now set to arrive on Tyneside in a deal worth £55 million, giving Eddie Howe the pace and directness he craved in his attacking ranks.

Yet, as Manchester United still struggle to finalise a deal for Mbeumo, Newcastle might now play an unexpected role in disrupting that move altogether.

With Elanga nearly over the line, the club’s attention has turned to reinforcing the striker position—a pressing need following Callum Wilson’s departure.

Among the names being considered is Yoane Wissa, Mbeumo’s attacking partner at Brentford, who also had a standout campaign last season.

The 28-year-old has emerged as a realistic and strategic target for Newcastle, not just because of his goal-scoring ability but also because of the complications his sale could cause for Brentford’s summer plans.

According to reports from Sky Sports, Brentford are reluctant to lose both Wissa and Mbeumo in the same transfer window.

Selling both would severely weaken their attacking options and force them into the market for costly replacements. This presents an intriguing opportunity for Newcastle: by signing Wissa, they would almost certainly make it more difficult for Manchester United to seal their deal for Mbeumo.

That potential twist could serve as poetic justice for a Magpies side that were previously snubbed by the Cameroonian winger.

However, Newcastle are not the only club keeping tabs on Wissa’s situation. Tottenham Hotspur are also believed to be weighing up a move for the Brentford star.

Spurs had previously explored the idea of bringing Mbeumo to North London but are now considering whether Wissa could be a more attainable option.

The appointment of former Brentford manager Thomas Frank as Spurs’ new boss could give them a distinct advantage in negotiations. Frank has worked closely with Wissa over the years and may well be able to sway the forward in favour of reuniting in North London.

That said, Newcastle still have compelling factors in their favour. The promise of Champions League football, a clear role within a progressive project, and the chance to work under Eddie Howe could all appeal to Wissa, who is entering what many would consider the prime of his career.

His versatility, having operated both as a winger and central striker, makes him a valuable addition to any squad, especially one seeking to cope with a packed domestic and European schedule.

What also works in Newcastle’s favour is their proactive approach in this transfer window. The club has already demonstrated serious intent with the Elanga deal and appears determined not to be left behind as their Premier League rivals scramble to reinforce.

Brentford, for their part, remain relaxed publicly. Director of football Phil Giles has downplayed the likelihood of major sales, stating that they are under no pressure to offload their stars.

However, a significant offer from Newcastle could test their resolve, particularly as Wissa’s contract situation grows more pressing—he has just one year remaining, albeit with an option for an additional year.

Should Newcastle succeed in signing Wissa, they would not only secure a much-needed forward but potentially derail Manchester United’s chase for Mbeumo.

Such a move would highlight the club’s growing influence in the transfer market, a testament to Howe’s project and Newcastle’s ambition.

It would also serve as a reminder that while Newcastle may have missed out on one Brentford star, they’re very capable of striking back with a decisive blow of their own.