Thomas Frank has reduced Arsenal's chances of signing Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo.
The Gunners need some extra firepower in the January transfer window and their desire has only been exacerbated by Gabriel Jesus' injury. Mikel Arteta is already without talismanic figure Bukayo Saka and the Gunners have long been interested in improving their attacking line.
Mbeumo has scored 13 Premier League goals for the Bees this season, surpassing his 2023/2024 tally in fewer games. The Cameron international has secured his position as an in-demand talent with the likes of Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham, all linked to him signing alongside Arsenal.
The 25-year-old's boss is not too concerned about the possibility of losing a star who helped the west London side survive Ivan Toney's summer exit. Frank, on the other hand, is convinced that Mbeumo will not leave the Gtech Stadium in the coming weeks.
The Danish head coach gave a candid answer when asked about the possibility of Mbeumo completing a move in January. “No. So, that question is very easy to answer!” he said.
Frank has taken a consistent stance on the possibility of the striker leaving the club this month. When asked about the future of the former Troyes CEO last month, the 51-year-old even wished the players good luck, such was his confidence.
“Those clubs in January [laughs]?” he said. “I'd say 'good luck'! We love Bryan, he loves playing here. He's had a fantastic season, so nothing will happen.”
However, Frank does believe that Mbeumo will eventually leave the Bees. The Brentford boss has used the French-born star 225 times and has been rewarded with 63 goals and 45 assists.
Earlier this season, Frank even went so far as to recommend so-called big clubs to make a bid for the winger. In the 2024/25 season, Mbeumo has only improved his game.
“He added another layer this year,” Frank said in October. “I am convinced that one day he will play for a bigger club. I would definitely buy him if I played for a bigger club.”
However, Arsenal boss Arteta has some hope of signing a new striker this month. Speaking to TNT Sports after Arsenal beat Tottenham 2-1, the Spaniard said: “Yes, especially because we have lost two big players: Bukayo, who could be out for three months, and Gabby, who will be out for a very long time are.” , long time.
“We're going to try [in this window] Certainly. We are actively looking. We'll try. Let's see what we can get.”
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