Liverpool could revive their interest in Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh in January, with the player’s recovery from a foot injury and Cody Gakpo’s future likely to influence any move.
The Reds failed to reach an agreement for the 22-year-old during the summer transfer window after Brighton rejected offers of £50 million and £60 million. The Seagulls were initially seeking about £70m before reportedly increasing their valuation to £80m.
Liverpool ultimately ended their pursuit, with Minteh’s injury understood to have been a significant factor in the decision.
Liverpool interest in Yankuba Minteh remains possible
Gambian journalist Foday Manneh said the possibility of Liverpool returning for the winger had not been ruled out, particularly if he makes a swift recovery and impresses on his return.
“The only thing that is there is the possibility of Liverpool coming back for him in January. It’s still not ruled out,” Manneh said.
He added: “It only depends on how soon he can recover and come back… One or two games can convince Liverpool again that this is the player we are looking for and then can make a move.”
Manneh also suggested Gakpo’s position could affect Liverpool’s plans, with the Netherlands international potentially leaving in January.
“Because Cody Gakpo leaving Liverpool in January is still a possibility. So, if Gakpo leaves Liverpool in January, then Yankuba can be the player then they can turn to,” he said.
“They can come back and then see whether they can get him. That depends on if Yankuba could return to football very soon and play that good two or three games. Once he does that, Liverpool coming back in January is very, very possible.”
Minteh’s injury was previously described by Manneh as the decisive issue late in the summer negotiations, outweighing even Brighton’s asking price.
Why Brighton winger remains an attractive option
Minteh would offer Liverpool a naturally right-sided, left-footed winger capable of directly challenging defenders and providing width, qualities the club are believed to value.
Brighton showed during the summer that they were prepared to stand firm over their valuation. The club’s position means Liverpool may still face a substantial fee if they renew their interest, even if Minteh returns to action.
Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler has hinted that the door may not be completely closed, while a separate report this week indicated that Minteh remains on Liverpool’s radar for January.
Any renewed approach is therefore likely to depend on two developments: whether Minteh can quickly demonstrate his fitness and form, and whether Liverpool lose an attacking option during the winter window.
