Liverpool have reportedly made their decision between Ibrahim Mbaye and Yankuba Minteh, with Fabrizio Romano confirming that personal terms have been agreed with the Brighton winger. The development also provides further clarity on Liverpool’s pursuit of Bradley Barcola.
Liverpool entered the summer transfer window determined to rebuild their wide options. Mohamed Salah has departed on a free transfer, while Cody Gakpo and Federico Chiesa could still leave before the window closes. Victor Munoz was brought in early, and Rio Ngumoha is expected to take on a bigger role this season, but the Reds still want to add two more wingers.
PSG star Bradley Barcola remains Liverpool’s main target, with personal terms already agreed with the France international. Negotiations between the two clubs are continuing over the transfer fee and structure of the deal.
PSG initially valued Barcola at around £145m, but Liverpool reportedly expect that figure to drop to approximately £120m-£125m, particularly after the French champions strengthened their attack with several new forwards.
For the second winger addition, Liverpool had previously appeared ready to pursue Barcola’s PSG teammate Ibrahim Mbaye. The Reds reached an agreement with the youngster over personal terms, but their focus has now shifted towards Yankuba Minteh.
Liverpool have already submitted two offers for the Brighton winger, believed to be worth £50m and £60m respectively. A third bid in the region of £66m could reportedly be enough to convince Brighton to sell.
Why Liverpool have moved away from Mbaye
French journalist Fabrice Hawkins has revealed that PSG’s £70m valuation of Mbaye is a major reason Liverpool are reluctant to proceed with the deal.
Although that figure could be an opening position for negotiations, interested clubs reportedly value the 18-year-old closer to €50m. Liverpool have already agreed personal terms with Mbaye but are unwilling to match PSG’s current asking price.
Mbaye’s limited senior experience is also understood to be a factor, having made fewer than 50 first-team appearances during his club career.
With Liverpool unwilling to meet PSG’s valuation, Minteh has emerged as the preferred option to provide competition for Ngumoha on the right wing.
Romano confirms Minteh agreement
Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed that Minteh has agreed personal terms with Liverpool, strengthening the belief that the Gambian winger is heading towards Anfield.
Importantly, Romano clarified that Minteh is not being pursued as an alternative to Barcola. Liverpool want to sign both players, meaning Mbaye is increasingly likely to be the player who misses out.
Negotiations with Brighton are continuing over a deal for Minteh, with Liverpool reportedly optimistic about completing the transfer.
