Brighton reject Liverpool’s improved £60m offer for Yankuba Minteh
Liverpool have seen a second and improved offer for Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh rejected, with the Seagulls reportedly seeking around £70 million for the 22-year-old.
Liverpool’s pursuit of Yankuba Minteh has hit another obstacle after Brighton rejected an improved £60 million offer for the winger, with the south-coast club reportedly holding out for a figure closer to £70 million.
The latest development comes after the Reds initially tested Brighton’s resolve with a £50 million proposal, only for that approach to be turned down as the club continues its search for attacking reinforcements.
Liverpool’s interest in Minteh comes amid a major reshaping of their forward line following Mohamed Salah’s departure, leaving manager Andoni Iraola looking for more pace and creativity in the wide areas.
The Gambian international has emerged as one of the options being considered, having shown his ability to operate from the right while also possessing the speed to threaten defenders in transition.
His numbers last season were modest, with three goals and four assists in 36 appearances, but his influence was not limited to goals and assists, particularly through his pressing, ball carrying and willingness to attack defenders.
Minteh’s immediate availability is also a concern because he is recovering from surgery on a right-leg injury suffered during Brighton’s pre-season victory over Roma.
He is expected to remain sidelined for roughly two to three months, meaning Liverpool would potentially be investing heavily in a player unable to contribute immediately.
Brighton’s stance nevertheless makes clear that they are reluctant to lose the youngster unless their valuation is met, leaving Liverpool with a decision over whether to raise their offer or turn their attention elsewhere.
The Reds remain interested in PSG winger Bradley Barcola, although his reported valuation makes that route considerably more expensive.
With the transfer window approaching its final stages, Liverpool must now decide whether Minteh is worth stretching their budget for or whether another target can better solve their need for additional attacking quality.
