Liverpool’s search for a new right winger is continuing, with Yankuba Minteh still firmly on the club’s radar as the Reds look ahead to 2027.
The Brighton winger was a serious target last summer, and Liverpool were clearly prepared to spend big to bring him to Anfield. However, Brighton’s valuation proved too high, and a deal failed to materialise.
Now that Minteh has recovered from injury, the possibility of Liverpool returning for him remains an interesting one.
He is not the only attacking player being monitored, either. Chelsea youngster Estêvão is another name attracting interest, with Liverpool expected to be among the clubs keeping a close eye on his situation should he become available.
But there is another important detail in the latest transfer picture: Julian Ward is prioritising a midfield revamp for 2027.
And, in my opinion, that is exactly where Liverpool need to get their recruitment right.
Minteh remains an attractive option for Liverpool
Liverpool’s interest in Minteh is hardly a surprise.
The Gambian international offers something the Reds have been missing: a natural right-sided attacker who is comfortable taking defenders on, using his pace and driving towards goal.
Last summer, Liverpool made two bids for the Brighton forward, reportedly worth £50m and then £60m. Both were rejected, with Brighton understood to value him closer to £70m.
Minteh was keen on the possibility of joining Liverpool, but the clubs could not reach an agreement.
His injury complicated matters, too. Liverpool were not prepared to meet Brighton’s demands for a player who was facing a spell on the sidelines.
With Minteh now back from injury, the situation could be worth revisiting.
He is still young, has Premier League experience and has the attributes to become a dangerous attacking option. If Brighton’s valuation becomes more realistic, I would certainly be interested in seeing Liverpool make another move.
However, I would not want the club to get dragged into another expensive transfer battle.
There are other positions that need attention.
Estêvão is another exciting name to watch
Liverpool also retain an interest in Chelsea’s Brazilian youngster Estêvão.
He is an exciting talent with the technical ability, close control and confidence to cause problems for defenders. If Chelsea were ever prepared to consider letting him leave, Liverpool would surely be interested in joining the race.
But that is a big if.
Chelsea have invested heavily in young talent, and it would be difficult to imagine them willingly allowing a player with Estêvão’s potential to leave without a substantial offer.
Liverpool should certainly keep tabs on his situation, but I would be wary of treating him as a realistic transfer option until there is something more concrete.
Minteh feels like the more straightforward target, particularly given the previous negotiations between Liverpool and Brighton.
Julian Ward must get the midfield rebuild right
This is the part of the transfer picture that interests me most.
Ward is reportedly prioritising a midfield revamp for 2027, and I believe that has to be Liverpool’s biggest recruitment priority.
I have been saying for some time that the midfield is not providing enough quality service to the forwards. Too often, Liverpool lack the creativity, forward passing and physical presence needed to control matches.
We need players who can break lines, win duels, protect the defence and get the ball moving quickly towards our attacking players.
I would love to see Liverpool bring in a proper defensive midfielder with some of the qualities Fabinho gave us at his best.
Trey Nyoni is an exciting young talent and I believe he has a huge future at Anfield, but we cannot put too much responsibility on his shoulders. He needs experienced quality around him, not to be expected to solve Liverpool’s midfield problems on his own.
The same applies to the wider midfield group. Liverpool need better balance, more competition and players who can offer something different.
A new right winger would be welcome, but it will count for very little if the midfield continues to struggle to supply the attack.
Liverpool cannot afford to get their priorities wrong
There is no doubt that Liverpool need to strengthen out wide.
Minteh remains an appealing option, while Estêvão would be an exciting addition if circumstances ever made a move possible.
But I would rather see Liverpool spend their money wisely than chase expensive names simply because they are available.
The midfield needs serious attention, and Ward has a big job ahead of him.
Liverpool need to build a squad capable of competing across all competitions, not just add another attacking player and hope that solves everything.
My verdict: Keep Minteh on the shortlist, monitor Estêvão’s situation and make the midfield rebuild the priority.
If Liverpool get that right, the forwards will have a much better platform to succeed.
Jamie – (The Kopite View)
### _Related_