Liverpool have suffered a setback in their search for attacking reinforcements after Brighton & Hove Albion rejected a £50 million approach for winger Yankuba Minteh.
The Reds have identified the 22-year-old Gambia international as one of several options as they attempt to strengthen their wide areas before the transfer window closes. However, Brighton have made it clear that Liverpool’s proposed £50m figure does not meet their valuation.
Minteh is currently unavailable after suffering a leg injury during Brighton’s pre-season preparations. The problem is expected to keep him sidelined until around October, but that has not stopped Liverpool from testing Brighton’s resolve.
The winger is reportedly open to joining Liverpool, although Brighton are in a strong negotiating position and have shown no willingness to accept the Reds’ opening proposal.
Minteh joined Brighton from Newcastle United for around £30m in July 2024 after spending the previous campaign on loan with Feyenoord.
He has since established himself in the Premier League, registering nine goals across 64 league appearances during his first two seasons with Brighton.
Liverpool’s interest comes as strengthening the wide forward positions remains a major priority.
The Reds have already signed Victor Muñoz from Osasuna this summer, but they are continuing to assess further additions as manager Andoni Iraola reshapes his attacking options.
Minteh is not Liverpool’s only target.
Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola remains a major option, and Liverpool have continued discussions over the France international. The biggest obstacle is PSG’s valuation, which has been reported as high as £145m — a figure Liverpool have been reluctant to meet.
That helps explain why the Reds have explored alternatives such as Minteh.
The Brighton winger primarily operates from the right and would offer Liverpool Premier League experience alongside significant room for further development.
Brighton, however, have little incentive to sell cheaply. Minteh remains under a long-term contract and his importance has increased at a time when the Seagulls are already dealing with changes to their attacking options.
Liverpool must now decide whether to return with an improved offer or concentrate their resources on Barcola or another winger.
For now, Brighton have drawn a clear line: £50m is not enough to take Minteh to Anfield.
