Everton, Liverpool lose race to sign Yankuba Minteh to Brighton & Hove Albion

Merseyside duo Everton and Liverpool have faltered as Brighton & Hove Albion have won the race for Newcastle United star Yankuba Minteh.

Brighton & Hove Albion have secured the signing of highly-rated winger Yankuba Minteh from Newcastle United, in a deal worth £33 million. This transfer sets a new club record for the Seagulls, surpassing the nearly £30 million they paid for Joao Pedro from Watford last summer. HITC confirm that Brighton outmanoeuvred other interested parties, including Everton and Liverpool, to land the 19-year-old Gambian international.

Newcastle United, struggling to comply with Profit and Sustainability rules, had to offload Minteh despite some internal reservations. Manager Eddie Howe was reportedly eager to see Minteh in action during pre-season with an eye on integrating him into the first team.

However, the financial constraints led to Newcastle United’s decision to sell the young talent, who never got the chance to play for the Magpies’ senior squad after being signed from Danish club Odense for £8 million last summer.

A rising star

Minteh’s potential had attracted the attention of several clubs. His successful loan spell at Feyenoord last season under the now-Liverpool boss, Arne Slot, showcased his talent and raised his profile. Slot was among those who praised Minteh’s performance in the Eredivisie, further fueling interest in the young winger.

Everton and Lyon both held talks with Newcastle regarding a deal for Minteh. However, Brighton’s willingness to meet Newcastle’s valuation proved decisive. The Seagulls’ ambitious move highlights their intent to strengthen their squad and build on their recent successes in the Premier League. This acquisition not only adds depth to Brighton’s attacking options but also underscores their commitment to investing in promising young talent.

Collective Merseyside failure

The loss of Minteh to Brighton is a setback for Everton and Liverpool, both of whom were keen on acquiring the Gambian winger. For Everton, securing a player of Minteh’s calibre would have been a significant boost as they look to bolster their squad. Liverpool, under new management, also saw potential in Minteh to add fresh energy and creativity to their attack.

Brighton’s acquisition of Yankuba Minteh showcases their growing ambition and smart transfer strategy. The club’s willingness to break their transfer record indicates their confidence in Minteh’s potential to make an immediate impact in the Premier League. While Everton and Liverpool will be disappointed to miss out on such a promising talent, Brighton can laud themselves for landing themselves a proper talent.