Liverpool learn Brighton demand for Minteh, not expected to make another bid for winger | OneFootball

Liverpool’s pursuit of Yankuba Minteh has hit a major obstacle after Brighton reportedly informed the Reds that they want £80 million for the injured winger. Andoni Iraola’s side have already made two attempts to sign the 22-year-old as they search for another right-sided attacker following Mohamed Salah’s departure.

However, Liverpool currently have no intention of meeting Brighton’s valuation, raising the possibility that the deal could now collapse unless the Seagulls lower their demands.

Liverpool unwilling to meet valuation for Minteh

Yankuba Minteh of Brighton (Photo by Paul Harding/Getty Images)

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Brighton have told Liverpool they value Minteh at around £80m.

Liverpool’s previous £60m offer was considered competitive by the Reds but was rejected, and they are not expected to submit a third bid unless Brighton become more flexible.

The size of Brighton’s demand is particularly significant because Minteh is currently injured.

Sky Sports confirmed that Brighton rejected Liverpool’s £60m proposal after also turning down an initial £50m bid, while the Gambia international is expected to remain sidelined until around October.

The valuation has since increased further. talkSPORT that Brighton are demanding £80m, while Liverpool are reluctant to go significantly beyond the £60m already offered.

Reds are right to walk away from the move

(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Minteh clearly fits what Liverpool are looking for.

He is left-footed, explosive and comfortable attacking from the right, giving him some of the stylistic qualities the Reds lost when Salah departed. At only 22, there is also plenty of room for improvement.

But £80m changes the conversation completely.

Liverpool would effectively be paying an elite-level fee for a player who is still developing and may not even be available for another couple of months. That represents a considerable risk when Iraola needs immediate attacking depth.

Brighton are entitled to set whatever valuation they want, particularly because they have no pressure to sell. Liverpool, though, are equally right to draw a line.

Their £60m bid already represents a substantial investment. Increasing that by another £20m simply because the deadline is approaching would look more like desperation than smart recruitment.