Liverpool could revive January move for Gambia star Yankuba Minteh

Liverpool could make another attempt to sign Gambian winger Yankuba Minteh in January after failing to reach an agreement with Brighton during the summer transfer window.

The 22-year-old was the subject of two offers from Liverpool during the summer, but Brighton rejected bids of £50 million and £60 million.

Minteh’s recovery could influence Liverpool interest

According to Gambian journalist Foday Manneh, a move to Anfield has not been completely ruled out and Liverpool could reconsider their position depending on Minteh’s recovery from injury and how quickly he returns to his best form.

Brighton initially valued the winger at £70 million before increasing their asking price to £80 million during the final week of the transfer window.

Liverpool opted not to match the new valuation, with Minteh’s injury situation also reportedly playing a role in their decision.

The Gambian suffered an injury setback in August and subsequently underwent surgery, with an expected recovery period of two to three months.

Manneh believes Liverpool could renew their interest if Minteh returns quickly and makes an immediate impression for Brighton.

“The only thing that remains is the possibility that Liverpool will come knocking on his door again in January. It’s not out of the question yet,” said Manneh.

“It all depends on how quickly he can recover and come back… One or two games can convince Liverpool again that this is the player we are looking for, and then they can make a move.”

Gakpo situation could affect January plans

Manneh also suggested that Liverpool’s attacking options could influence whether they return for Minteh, particularly if Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo leaves the club during the January transfer window.

“Because a departure of Cody Gakpo in January is still possible. Should Gakpo leave Liverpool in January, Yankuba could be the player they then rely on.”

“They can then come back and see if they can get him. That depends on whether Yankuba can play football again very soon and have two or three good games. As soon as he does that, a return from Liverpool in January is very, very likely.”

The journalist expects Minteh to remain in the Premier League in the coming years and believes the Gambia international could eventually earn a move to one of England’s bigger clubs.

“I think he will stay in the Premier League. I’m not sure if he will leave the Premier League in the next two or three years,” he explained.

“But yes, it’s also a transfer where you can never say never, and the possibility that he’ll move to other clubs exists. But at the moment, I see him playing in the Premier League and also moving to a bigger club in the Premier League.”

Minteh’s representatives involved in Liverpool talks

Minteh’s representatives were also involved in Liverpool’s efforts to sign him during the summer.

Manneh said the player’s agent, Bakary Bojang, worked alongside UK agency CAA Stellar during the negotiations.

“Yes, Yankuba’s advisor worked with CAA Stellar. I know he cooperated with them to see this through from the beginning to the last day,” said Manneh.

“They were involved from the very beginning. He worked with them from the start, so yes, he was in contact with them. They helped bring the player from Brighton to Liverpool.”

Minteh’s focus remains on recovering from his injury, with his performances after returning to action potentially playing a role in determining whether Liverpool revive their interest in January.