By Francis Onyach - Reporter
UK , August 21 ,2026 - Liverpool have stepped up their pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion winger Yankuba Minteh, with the Reds pushing to strengthen their attack before the transfer window closes.
However, the latest information requires an important distinction from the initial claim: Liverpool's confirmed bid so far was £50 million, and Brighton rejected it. Reports that the Reds have subsequently prepared or submitted a £60 million proposal are emerging, but the club-to-club agreement has not yet been reached.
The situation is developing quickly, with Liverpool determined to add another wide attacker following the departure of Mohamed Salah.
Minteh has emerged as one of Liverpool's leading targets as new manager Andoni Iraola looks to reshape his attacking options.
The Gambian winger joined Brighton from Newcastle United in 2024 after an impressive loan spell at Feyenoord. Brighton paid around £30 million for the player, who subsequently established himself as an important part of their squad.
Liverpool's initial £50 million proposal was significant, but Brighton rejected it.
According to reports, the Seagulls believe they can command approximately £60 million for the 22-year-old, giving Liverpool a clear indication of what may be required to make the transfer happen.
Minteh is open to Liverpool move#
The player's position could become crucial in the negotiations.
Minteh is reportedly interested in joining Liverpool, despite currently being sidelined with a leg injury. His absence is expected to keep him out for several weeks, but that has not stopped Liverpool from exploring the transfer.
The injury could potentially make negotiations more complicated, particularly given Brighton's desire to retain one of their most dangerous attacking players.
Minteh has made 66 Premier League appearances for Brighton, contributing nine goals and eight assists. His numbers do not tell the entire story, however, with his pace, direct running and ability to attack defenders making him particularly attractive.
One of the most interesting aspects of Liverpool's pursuit is the club's continued interest in Bradley Barcola.
Liverpool have been pursuing the Paris Saint-Germain winger for much of the summer, and reports indicate that he remains a priority target despite the simultaneous pursuit of Minteh.
That suggests Liverpool are looking to significantly strengthen their wide positions rather than simply identifying one replacement for Salah.
The financial difference between the two targets is substantial. PSG have reportedly placed a valuation of around £145 million on Barcola, while Brighton's expected price for Minteh is closer to £60 million.
Liverpool could therefore potentially pursue both players if the club believes there is room within the budget.
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Liverpool need more attacking options#
The urgency behind the recruitment is understandable.
Liverpool have already lost Salah, while their attacking depth has been tested by injuries and departures. The club have signed Victor Muñoz from Osasuna for around £34.5 million, but Iraola has made it clear that further attacking reinforcements are required.
The new Liverpool manager is particularly keen to strengthen the wings.
That explains why the club are simultaneously exploring Minteh and Barcola, while other attacking targets have also been considered.
Brighton are under no obligation to sell.
Minteh remains under contract until 2029, giving the club significant leverage. The Seagulls have also already lost several important players this summer, meaning selling another key attacker would create additional pressure on manager Fabian Hürzeler.
Hürzeler has acknowledged Liverpool's interest but indicated that he expects the situation surrounding his players to continue evolving before the transfer deadline.
Liverpool therefore face another difficult negotiation with a club renowned for demanding substantial fees for its players.
Liverpool's interest in Minteh is genuine, but the transfer is not yet agreed.
The Reds have already tested Brighton with a £50 million offer and received a rejection. Reports now suggest that Liverpool may be prepared to increase the proposal towards the £60 million level Brighton are seeking.
With the deadline approaching, the next few days could determine whether Minteh becomes the latest major arrival at Anfield.
For now, Liverpool are pushing, Minteh is reportedly receptive to the move, but Brighton still hold the cards.
And with Barcola remaining a major target, Liverpool's attacking rebuild could become one of the defining stories of the final days of the transfer window.