Liverpool suffer Yankuba Minteh blow as Brighton reject second bid worth £60m

Liverpool's search for a new attacking catalyst has hit a major stumbling block as Brighton & Hove Albion continue to play hardball over Minteh. The Reds have seen a second official proposal for the 22-year-old winger rejected by the Seagulls hierarchy, despite offering a package worth £60 million. This follow-up bid comes shortly after Brighton dismissed an initial £50 million offer submitted yesterday, Thursday.

According to The Athletic, even Liverpool's improved offer failed to sway Brighton, who are holding firm on their £70m valuation. This shortfall leaves the Anfield hierarchy with a key dilemma as the transfer window draws to a close.

Minteh's current fitness status adds another layer of complexity to any potential deal. The winger is currently sidelined after undergoing surgery for a right leg injury suffered during a 3-0 friendly win over Roma earlier this month - a setback that will keep him out of action for two to three months.

Despite the injury setback, Minteh's market value remains high thanks to his steady development since joining Brighton from Newcastle United in the summer of 2024. The winger proved his quality last season, registering three goals and four assists across 36 appearances at the Amex Stadium.

The urgency behind Liverpool's pursuit comes amid a summer of major overhaul in attack following the high-profile departure of Salah. Replacing the Egyptian's output presents a massive challenge; despite already securing 23-year-old forward Victor Munoz from Osasuna, manager Andoni Iraola warned in his press conference today ahead of Sunday's opener against Newcastle that the squad remains short on options. 'There are certain situations that for me are clear, especially on the wing because we don't have enough players specifically to play in those positions,' Iraola added, stressing the pressing need for further wide reinforcements.

Minteh is far from Liverpool's only target, though secondary options are proving just as tough to land. The Reds have tracked Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola throughout the transfer window, but negotiations remain stalled over a sizeable gap in the two clubs' valuations of the France international.

During his spell at Brighton, Minteh has established himself as a vital asset, registering nine goals and eight assists across 66 Premier League appearances. Beyond his primary role on the right flank, his tactical adaptability has provided crucial cover on the left wing during Kaoru Mitoma's absences.

With the Gambia international under contract until 2029, Brighton hold a strong negotiating position as the clock ticks down. The pressure now mounts on Liverpool - who finished fifth last season - to force a breakthrough before opening their 2026-27 campaign at St James' Park against Newcastle United on Sunday.