Arsenal agree on Bryan Mbeumo transfer plan as Mikel Arteta eyes January reinforcements

Arsenal are reportedly setting their sights on a summer swoop for Brentford's star player Bryan Mbeumo, who has been in scintillating form this season. With 13 goals in 20 Premier League matches to his name, only Mohamed Salah and Erling Haaland have outscored him, while Arsenal's current top scorer is Kai Havertz with seven goals.

The Gunners are eager to bolster their attacking options and manager Mikel Arteta had previously indicated they were prepared to splash the cash in the January transfer window if "something unbelievable" came up, especially after Bukayo Saka's hamstring injury. "Well, my focus honestly now is just about within the squad the resources we have to be as competitive as we possibly can," he said.

"We have many, many options to do that. And if something unbelievable [becomes] available and if the club is willing to do it, we'll have to consider it."

However, it seems Arsenal have now opted to hold off until the end of the season before making any moves, with Sky Sports Germany reporting that Mbeumo is on their shortlist 'for a potential summer transfer'. Mbeumo's contract runs until 2026 and Brentford boss Thomas Frank recently insisted the player would not be leaving this month, reports the Mirror.

When asked about rumours over Mbeumo's future, Frank said: "In January? I would say good luck. We love Bryan. He loves playing here. He has had a fantastic season so nothing will happen."

This follows up from earlier in the season when Frank disclosed that Brentford had to work hard to keep Mbeumo. "He was our biggest miss for four months last year, even with Toney out," Frank said. "He was our key player and has added another layer this season with five goals in six games. That's incredible and he's creating chances. He's a top player.

"I'm convinced he will play for a bigger club. I'd buy him if I was at a bigger club! We convinced him to stay and he's very happy. All our players might need to leave us one day but a lot of them are happy because we have a top environment, with good people. We push each other."