Liverpool and Newcastle United are reportedly set to go head-to-head in a summer transfer battle for Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo.

The 23-year-old Cameroonian winger has been in impressive form this season, scoring 8 Premier League goals – the same number as Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah.

His performances have caught the eye of both Reds manager Arne Slot and Magpies boss Eddie Howe.

Newcastle are believed to view Mbeumo as their top transfer target, with the club keen to bolster their attacking options after struggling for goals so far this campaign, netting just 13 times in the league.

However, Liverpool are also said to be interested in the £50 million-rated forward as they look to potentially replace Salah, whose contract expires at the end of the season.

Mbeumo’s versatility, able to play across the front three, has drawn comparisons to former Liverpool star Sadio Mane. Slot is reportedly impressed by the 25-year-old’s displays for Brentford.

The Bees are reluctant to sell their prized asset in January, with Thomas Frank determined to keep the squad together as they push for a top-half finish. But a summer battle between the two Premier League heavyweights appears on the cards.

Newcastle may look to sweeten a potential deal by including injury-prone striker Callum Wilson, who is yet to feature this season.

However, Brentford’s £50 million valuation could prove a significant stumbling block for both clubs.