Tom Saintfiet believes Yankuba Minteh could soon join Liverpool. The Belgian coach, who once managed the Gambian national team, expressed confidence in the winger’s rise.
Minteh, 21, has impressed at Brighton with his explosive pace and creativity.
His performances have reportedly attracted serious interest from Liverpool, a move Saintfiet considers entirely possible.
“I heard about Liverpool’s interest recently,” Saintfiet said in an interview with Africafoot. “It doesn’t surprise me.
A club like Liverpool always looks for top-quality players.”
He explained that Liverpool’s current form might push them to strengthen their squad during the winter transfer window.
“They’ve struggled in recent weeks,” Saintfiet said. “Arne Slot mentioned that his team may not be as deep as people think.
That means they could add new players soon.”
When asked if Minteh could be among Liverpool’s signings, the coach showed no hesitation.
“It’s possible,” he said. “Liverpool has the resources and determination to sign any player they want. If they truly want Minteh, they can get him.”
Saintfiet, who guided Gambia during Minteh’s early international days, praised the winger’s qualities.
“His speed is incredible,” he said. “But it’s not just about pace. He’s technically strong, reads the game well, and can score or create goals.”
The coach described Minteh as a disciplined and humble individual. “His mentality is excellent,” Saintfiet noted.
“I met him once at Casablanca airport. He’s very respectful and down-to-earth. That attitude will help him succeed at the highest level.”
Saintfiet recalled the moment he first called Minteh up to the national team in 2022. “He was still playing for Odense in Denmark,” he said.
“He had never played in Gambia’s first division, but I followed him closely. I watched him against Midtjylland and knew he was ready for international football.”
Minteh made his Gambia debut in a friendly against Guinea-Bissau and scored his first international goal against Congo during the 2024 AFCON qualifiers.
After joining Newcastle United, Minteh moved on loan to Feyenoord Rotterdam, a decision Saintfiet fully supported.
“I told him to accept that offer,” he said. “The Dutch league is great for young attacking players. Feyenoord trusts youth, and that helped him develop fast.”
Saintfiet admitted he did not expect Minteh to adapt so quickly in Europe. “He went from Gambia to Denmark and then to the Netherlands, and he adjusted every time,” he said.
“I thought he’d need two years at Feyenoord, but he was outstanding from the start.”
The Belgian coach believes Minteh’s professionalism has fueled his rise. “He trains hard and knows what he wants,” he said.
“Liverpool’s interest doesn’t surprise me. He’s ready for a big move.”
Saintfiet concluded with optimism about his former player’s future. “Minteh will soon play for one of Europe’s biggest clubs,” he said. “I think it will be Liverpool. I truly hope that happens.”
