Liverpool could return for Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh in the January transfer window after failing to sign him during the summer. The 22-year-old was one of Liverpool’s preferred targets as Andoni Iraola looked to strengthen his attacking options.
Liverpool made two bids for Minteh, reportedly worth around £50 million and £60 million, but Brighton rejected both. Brighton were believed to want a significantly higher fee, with reports putting their valuation around £70–80 million.
The Reds eventually completed the signing of Bradley Barcola from PSG and also brought in Victor Muñoz, while Cody Gakpo remained at Anfield after Liverpool failed to secure another right-wing option.
However, Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler has now opened the door to a possible January departure. Speaking about Minteh, Hurzeler suggested that if the winger performs well and helps Brighton have a successful season, he could attract renewed interest and potentially fulfil his ambition of moving to a bigger club in the next transfer window.
Minteh is currently recovering from a foot injury, which has kept him out of Brighton’s matches so far this season. A January transfer could therefore depend on his fitness, his performances after returning, and whether Liverpool believe they still need another right winger.
There is also uncertainty surrounding Cody Gakpo’s future. Manchester City and Tottenham showed interest in him during the summer, and renewed interest could emerge in January. If Gakpo eventually leaves, Liverpool could have even more reason to pursue another attacker.
In short: Liverpool’s interest in Minteh appears genuine, but a January move is not guaranteed. Brighton are likely to demand a substantial fee, and Liverpool will first assess how Barcola, Muñoz and their other attackers perform during the first half of the season.
