Liverpool’s attempts to secure the services of Yankuba Minteh are reaching a crucial stage, as Brighton continues to resist the Premier League champions’ efforts to finalize a deal before the transfer deadline.

However, Liverpool faces a significant challenge. Even if a deal is struck with Brighton, Minteh may remain unavailable to manager Andoni Iraola for several weeks due to a right leg injury that required surgery. This means Liverpool could potentially invest a substantial transfer fee in a player whose debut might be delayed until October or November.

Brighton Firm on Minteh’s Price Tag

Liverpool has already made two offers for Minteh, reportedly worth £50 million and £60 million, both of which Brighton rejected. The Seagulls reportedly value the Gambia international at approximately £70 million.

Discussions remain ongoing, with Liverpool preparing to make another attempt to test Brighton’s stance before the transfer window closes.

According to reports, personal terms with Minteh are understood to be largely agreed upon, and the player is eager to make the move to Anfield. However, the clubs must still reconcile their respective valuations, and Brighton is under no immediate pressure to sell a player who has established himself as a key attacking asset.

Injury Could Delay Liverpool Debut

Any arrangements made would carry the understanding that Minteh would not be able to contribute immediately. Sky Sports Germany’s Florian Plettenberg has indicated that Minteh is anticipated to need another two to three months before returning to full match fitness.

The injury occurred during Brighton’s pre-season friendly against Roma, following a challenge from Bryan Cristante. Minteh subsequently underwent surgery and missed the start of Brighton’s Premier League season against Aston Villa.

If his recovery extends through October or November, Liverpool would face waiting for one of their major summer signings to become available for selection. Yet, discussions remain active, suggesting that Liverpool is considering Minteh’s long-term potential beyond the initial months of Iraola’s tenure.

Liverpool’s Strategy Following Salah’s Departure

The interest in Minteh partly reflects Liverpool’s desire to reshape their attacking options after Mohamed Salah’s exit. Minteh fits a certain profile, being predominantly left-footed and capable of operating from the right, with a tendency to cut inside to challenge defenders.

Liverpool is also pursuing Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola, as both players are seen as key targets in the closing stages of the transfer window. Rather than simply viewing Minteh as an immediate replacement for Salah, Liverpool appears to be focusing on how their forward line should evolve in the longer term.

Minteh Signing Promises Long-Term Benefits

Having joined Brighton from Newcastle United in 2024 after a successful loan at Feyenoord, Minteh has made a mark with 10 goals and nine assists in 73 appearances. His age of 22 suggests significant room for growth, which explains Liverpool’s enthusiasm to continue negotiations despite his injury status.

The pressing issue remains the transfer fee. Brighton has shown a strong resolve in protecting Minteh’s valuation, while Liverpool must gauge how far they are willing to go for a player who may spend crucial months focused on rehabilitation. As the transfer deadline looms, a third bid from Liverpool could provide clearer insight into whether an agreement can be reached.

Liverpool’s pursuit of Yankuba Minteh has entered a decisive phase, with Brighton continuing to resist the Premier League champions’ attempts to sign the winger before the transfer deadline.

Advertisement

There is, however, another significant factor for Liverpool to consider. Even if an agreement with Brighton is reached, Minteh may not be available to Andoni Iraola for several weeks.

The 22-year-old is recovering from a right leg injury that required surgery, meaning Liverpool could potentially commit a substantial transfer fee to a player whose debut may have to wait until October or November.

Brighton Stand Firm on Minteh Valuation

Liverpool have already made two offers for Minteh, understood to have been worth £50 million and £60 million respectively. Both were rejected by Brighton, who reportedly value the Gambia international closer to £70 million.

Advertisement

Negotiations remain active, with Liverpool preparing to test Brighton’s position again before the window closes.

Photo: IMAGO

There has been progress elsewhere. Personal terms with Minteh are understood to be broadly agreed and the player is keen on moving to Anfield.

That leaves the clubs to resolve their respective valuations, although Brighton are under no immediate pressure to sell a player who remains under contract and has established himself as an important attacking option.

Injury Could Delay Liverpool Debut

Any agreement would come with the knowledge that Minteh cannot immediately contribute.

Advertisement

According to Sky Sports Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Minteh is expected to require another two to three months before returning to full match fitness.