Liverpool’s pursuit of Yankuba Minteh could be about to take another step forward.
According to IndyKaila News, Minteh is ready to tell Brighton that he wants to join Liverpool, with personal terms reportedly already sorted.
The report claims the Gambian winger has made his decision and wants the move to Anfield.
Now comes the difficult part.
Liverpool and Brighton have to reach an agreement.
Minteh wants Liverpool
The biggest positive from this latest report is the player’s reported stance.
If Minteh really does tell Brighton that Liverpool is where he wants to go, that could potentially give the Reds encouragement as they attempt to negotiate a deal.
Liverpool have been interested in Minteh for some time, with the club previously identified as a potential destination for the winger. Liverpool’s own website has also previously reported media claims that the Reds were planning a bid for him.
And there is an obvious reason why Liverpool like him.
Pace. Power. Directness.
Minteh has the ability to attack defenders and drive forward at speed, which could make him a fascinating fit for Iraola’s style of football.
But Brighton have already rejected Liverpool’s bid
This is where things become complicated.
Liverpool have reportedly already seen a £50m offer rejected by Brighton, meaning the Seagulls clearly aren’t prepared to simply let Minteh leave for the first serious proposal.
That means Liverpool now have a decision to make.
Do they increase their offer?
Or do they decide that the asking price is too high and move on to another target?
With Minteh reportedly wanting the move, Liverpool will certainly hope that helps their negotiating position.
The injury makes this even more interesting
There is another major factor Liverpool have to consider.
Minteh is currently recovering from a leg injury and is expected to be unavailable for a number of weeks.
That could potentially affect Brighton’s valuation.
Liverpool would be taking a risk by spending a huge amount of money on a player who won’t immediately be available.
But the Reds could also see the injury as an opportunity to negotiate a lower fee.
IndyKaila News has previously reported that Liverpool believe Minteh could potentially be available at a discounted price because of the situation.
Why Minteh could be a great fit
Liverpool need more options in the wide areas.
And Minteh’s profile is certainly intriguing.
He’s quick, aggressive and likes taking players on.
Those characteristics could work particularly well in Iraola’s system, where wide players are expected to contribute to the press as well as provide a threat going forward.
There is also the fact that Minteh already has Premier League experience.
That could make him a less risky signing than bringing in another young winger from a different league.
Barcola or Minteh?
This is where Liverpool’s transfer window gets really interesting.
The Reds have been heavily linked with Bradley Barcola, while Minteh has emerged as another option for the wide positions.
The two players offer different profiles, but both could provide Liverpool with the pace and explosiveness they need.
And Liverpool don’t necessarily have to choose immediately.
If the club genuinely want Minteh, they could continue negotiating with Brighton while also exploring other targets.
The next move belongs to Liverpool
If Minteh tells Brighton he wants Liverpool, the ball is effectively in Liverpool’s court.
The player wants the move.
Personal terms are reportedly not an issue.
Now Liverpool have to convince Brighton.
And that could be the hardest part.
Brighton know they have a valuable young player under contract and have already rejected a substantial offer.
So if Liverpool really want Minteh, they may have to go significantly higher.
This transfer could be ON
There’s still a long way to go before Minteh is standing in a Liverpool shirt.
But if the latest report is accurate, one important piece of the puzzle could already be in place.
Yankuba Minteh wants Liverpool.
Now the Reds need to get Brighton to say yes.
And with the transfer window entering its final stages, this is certainly one to watch.
Source: IndyKaila News
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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