Liverpool’s pursuit of Minteh becomes more complicated as Brighton stand firm after two rejected bids

Liverpool’s move for Yankuba Minteh has yet to take off. The Reds have already seen two bids rejected for the Gambian winger: the first worth £50m, the second rising to £60m, with both offers deemed insufficient by Brighton.

According to Sky Sports UK, Liverpool’s latest proposal did not meet Brighton’s valuation of the 2004-born winger, who therefore remains some way from a move to Anfield. The south-coast club are under no pressure to sell and continue to hold a firm stance, not least because Minteh is regarded as an important part of their attacking department.

Brighton refuse to lower their demands
Reports on Brighton’s asking price vary. The Independent claims Liverpool may need to reach around £70m to persuade Brighton, while talkSPORT suggests the Seagulls’ demands are even higher, closer to £80m, around €93m. For now, then, there remains a significant gap between offer and valuation. Liverpool have yet to decide whether to return with a third bid, partly because they are reluctant to go too far beyond the figures already put on the table.

Minteh interested, but injury adds another factor
Minteh would be open to joining Liverpool, but there is another element to consider: the Brighton winger is recovering from an injury sustained during preseason and is expected to be out until October. That has not completely cooled Liverpool’s interest, but it does make the deal even more delicate from a financial point of view.

The Reds are continuing to look for reinforcements out wide, with Bradley Barcola of Paris Saint-Germain regarded as one of their leading targets. The Minteh track remains alive, but as things stand Brighton do not appear willing to lower their demands.