Yankuba Minteh was the subject of two bids from Liverpool in recent days, with Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler offering an update on the 22-year-old earlier today
Fabian Hurzeler and Yankuba Minteh during Brighton vs Wolves in the Premier League.
Fabian Hurzeler and Yankuba Minteh during Brighton vs Wolves in the Premier League.(Image: MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler has offered another update on Yankuba Minteh, claiming that Liverpool transfer interest is just "rumors" at this stage.
The Reds have seen two offers for Minteh knocked back, with Brighton said to be holding out for around $108 million (£80 million) for the 22-year-old, who is currently sidelined through injury. He arrived from Newcastle in the summer of 2024 and scored three goals in all competitions last season.
Liverpool has also looked at other forward options including Ibrahim Mbaye and Ismaila Sarr. Its primary target is Bradley Barcola, but the PSG winger alone will not be enough to bolster the squad to a sufficient level.
"He's a Brighton player," Hurzeler said ahead of his side's Europa League qualifier against Tromso when asked about Minteh.
"He needs to commit to this club. He knows that these rumors only come because he benefits from everything here. Everyone knows how the football business works, let’s see the ideas from Liverpool...
"We have a lot of things regarding this player in our hands. With Tony (Bloom) and with Paul (Barber), together we try to make the right decision."
Yankuba Minteh picked up an injury during Brighton's pre-season.
Yankuba Minteh picked up an injury during Brighton's pre-season.(Image: Steve Bardens/Getty Images)
Teams have until Tuesday to conclude their summer transfer business, so Liverpool has to get a move on. In the cases of Minteh and others, a decision one way or another is coming.
"It's important for a player to understand what you have here playing for a club like Brighton," Hurzeler continued.
"You have a club that gives you a chance. You have a club and teammates that are trying to push you. You have a club that's there for you also in tough moments.
"Carlos Baleba had so many tough moments when he was here. Minteh also had tough moments but we are always there for them."
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Baleba moved to Manchester United this week, with Brighton agreeing to sell him for a fee of around $88 million (£65 million).
Liverpool.com says: Minteh is not really worth more than $100M but the Reds are backed into a corner. Everyone knows that they need wide forwards and that the clock is ticking, which is not an ideal starting point in negotiations.
Brighton would be well within its rights to demand a huge sum for Minteh. Should that not arrive, someone is likely to pay it in future transfer windows instead.