Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Yankuba Minteh, the 19-year-old winger from Newcastle who spent last season on loan at Feyenoord under the guidance of manager Arne Slot. According to Luke Edwards of the Telegraph, Liverpool is just one of several clubs expressing interest in the young Gambian player.
Minteh’s impressive performances at Feyenoord have attracted attention not only from Liverpool but also from clubs in Italy and Germany. Newcastle, however, is reluctantly considering selling him for around £40 million due to profit and sustainability rules.
During his loan spell at Feyenoord, Minteh primarily played on the right wing and showcased his abilities by scoring 11 goals and providing six assists in 37 appearances, 22 of which were starts. This strong showing has caught the eye of Liverpool, who are looking to add another right-sided forward to their roster this summer, as per Edwards.
Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s manager, is keen on signing a new right-sided forward and has identified Jarrod Bowen from West Ham, Michael Olise from Crystal Palace, and Nico Williams from Atletico Madrid as potential targets. With Newcastle not participating in any European competitions next season, Minteh’s playing time would be limited if he stays with the club. Therefore, Newcastle believes it is in the best interest of both the player and the club to consider offers for him.
Minteh’s style of play as a left-footed right-sided winger aligns well with Liverpool’s attacking philosophy. He excels at taking on defenders, as evidenced by his impressive average of 7.85 progressive carries per 90 minutes over the past year. This places him in the top one percent of players in Europe who play in a similar position. Although he would compete with Mo Salah for playing time at Liverpool, Minteh offers a different dynamic as he tends to receive the ball higher up the pitch compared to Salah.
Slot, Minteh’s former manager at Feyenoord, has spoken highly of the young player’s speed and decision-making abilities. He believes that Minteh’s choices in the final phase of play are already improving and that if he continues to develop, he may outgrow Feyenoord.
In conclusion, Liverpool’s reported interest in Yankuba Minteh highlights his potential as a promising young winger. His performances at Feyenoord have attracted attention from clubs across Europe, and Liverpool sees him as a potential addition to their attacking lineup. Minteh’s playing style and attributes make him a suitable fit for Liverpool’s system, and his development under Slot at Feyenoord bodes well for his future. However, Newcastle’s willingness to listen to offers suggests that Minteh’s departure from the club may be imminent.