Manchester United forward Brian Mbeumo has given the green light to pursue a summer move for Fulham defender Anthony Robinson. The latter is said to be linked with a move to Old Trafford before the start of the new Premier League season. United are thought to be interested in signing another left-back to cover Luke Shaw, who is currently their only senior option.
Harry Amass is thought to be a potential cover player for Shaw, but is likely to leave on loan if another player can be signed in the coming weeks. Robinson, who represented the United States at this summer’s World Cup, is reportedly on United’s shortlist. He has been a mainstay for Fulham over the past six seasons, making a total of 215 appearances.
Robinson falls outside United’s desired age profile for new players, with the Red Devils said to be targeting players under 26.
But one person who doesn’t mind those concerns is Mbeumo, who makes no secret of his admiration for the American full-back.
Last year, he cited Robinson as one of the defenders he found most difficult to play against.
Appearing on the ‘Obi Wan’ podcast, Mbeumo reflected on his early encounters with the left-back and the huge strides he has made over the course of his career.
Mbeumo said: “We played against him a lot when he was at Wigan, but (he) has completely changed. When he arrived, it was like, he was really athletic, he was quick, but he wasn’t that good with his feet, you know?”
“But over the years he’s grown a lot and I think he can do anything now.
“He can attack, he can defend, he’s strong, he uses his feet well, and yeah, I think it’s really, really difficult to play against him.”
Mbeumo tormented the Premier League for years before joining United, so his admiration for Robinson should not be dismissed lightly.
He is thought to be available for around £25m and is positioned as a potential steal for Carrick as they strengthen their team’s options.
With Shaw providing reliable defensive cover and Robinson offering an established pedigree, this could prove to be an ideal combination that allows Amath to develop at a reasonable rate while maintaining the ability to produce immediate results.
