Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo has given them the green light to pursue a summer move for Fulham defender Antonee Robinson. The latter has been linked with a potential switch to Old Trafford before the new Premier League campaign gets underway. United are thought to be interested in signing another left-back to provide cover for Luke Shaw, who is currently their only senior option.
Harry Amass is viewed as potential cover for Shaw, but it’s likely that he would leave on loan if another player can be signed over the coming weeks. Robinson, who represented the USA at this summer’s World Cup, is reportedly among the names on United’s shortlist. He has been a stalwart at Fulham over the last six seasons, registering 215 appearances in total.
Robinson falls outside United’s preferred age profile for new signings, with the Red Devils said to be targeting players no older than 26.
However, one individual who is unbothered by those concerns is Mbeumo, who has made no secret of his admiration for the American full-back.
Last year, he named Robinson as the one defender he found most challenging to face.
During an appearance on the Obi One podcast, Mbeumo reflected on his early encounters with the left-back and the significant strides he has made throughout his career.
Mbeumo said: “I used to play against him when he was at Wigan and (he) changed completely. When he arrived he was really athletic, quick, but with his feet he was like, not so good, you know?
“But throughout the years he improved a lot, and I think now he can do everything.
“He can attack, he can defend, he’s strong, he’s good with his feet now, and yeah, I think really, really hard to play against him.”
Mbeumo had tormented the Premier League for years before his United switch, so his admiration for Robinson should not be dismissed lightly.
He is believed to be available for approximately £25million, positioning him as a potential steal for Carrick as he strengthens his squad options.
With Shaw offering reliable defensive cover and Robinson providing the established pedigree, this could prove the ideal combination in enabling Amass to develop at a sensible rate while maintaining the capability to deliver results in the immediate term.