Man Utd eye replacement for Mbeumo as Rogers emerges as top target

Manchester United could be in the market for a fresh wide option come summer, with recent reports suggesting they've settled on their leading candidate to bolster their attacking ranks.

Bryan Mbeumo's arrival at Old Trafford last summer for approximately £71m from Brentford promised much, with the 26-year-old versatile forward seemingly primed to make an immediate impact. His early months were encouraging, and he's registered 12 goal involvements across 29 appearances this season. However, a concerning drought has emerged—he hasn't scored in his last seven outings, drawing unwanted attention to his recent performances.

According to Football Insider and Premier League chief scout Mick Brown, these dips in form have prompted United to explore alternatives. Brown outlined the thinking behind the club's scouting efforts, noting that the wider position is an area where the club feels it can strengthen. He highlighted that Mbeumo's form has deteriorated over roughly a ten-game spell, which presents a problem despite interim boss Michael Carrick continuing to select him.

The scout also pointed to a structural issue within United's attacking setup. When fielding Mbeumo alongside Sesko and Cunha, the side lacks a traditional wide man—all three tend to gravitate infield, leaving the flanks exposed and robbing the team of genuine width. A specialist wide player could solve this puzzle, though Mbeumo's own performance levels remain crucial. "He needs to rediscover the pace and finishing he showed on arrival," Brown suggested, warning that failure to do so could see him lose his place, particularly if competition increases.

Enter Morgan Rogers. The Aston Villa standout has emerged as United's primary target, with the England international reportedly identified as Carrick's top choice. The interim manager has supposedly made his wishes known to sporting director Jason Wilcox, with a summer move for Rogers now firmly on the agenda as United prepare for their return to European football's elite competition.

Whether such a move materialises, or whether Mbeumo simply needs time to rediscover his best form, remains to be seen. But one thing's certain—United's recruitment team will be keeping close tabs on developments over the coming weeks.