Brentford’s negotiating position in the possible sale of Bryan Mbeumo this summer is strengthened by the club having an option to extend the forward’s contract by 12 months.

Mbeumo has been in fine form so far this season, scoring 13 goals and providing three assists in the Premier League.

Only Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah have netted more in the top-flight this term and it has led to the Cameroon international been linked with a big move this summer.

Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool have all been credited with an interest in Mbeumo, who is also said to be on Newcastle’s radar.

Arsenal are in need of a new forward to provide competition and support for the injured Bukayo Saka, while Liverpool and Newcastle are both reportedly in the market for a new right winger.

Bees boss Thomas Frank has ruled out Mbeumo leaving the Gtech Community Stadium during the current transfer window, but a summer move has been touted.

The forward will have one year left on his contract by then - but crucially Brentford have the option to extend it by a further 12 months.

Mbeumo signed his current deal with the Bees in January 2022, agreeing terms on a contract that runs until June 2026.

As part of that agreement, however, Brentford have an option to automatically extend Mbeumo’s stay until 2027, strengthening their position in any transfer negotiations.

The Bees are enjoying a fine season and currently sit just one point and one place outside the Premier League’s top 10 following a 5-0 thrashing of struggling Southampton.

Mbeumo has played a key part in that and Frank insisted last month that the club had no plans to sell him in January.

“I would say good luck,” said Frank, when asked what he would say to clubs looking to buy Mbeumo during the current transfer window.

“We love Bryan. He loves playing here. He has had a fantastic season, so nothing will happen.”