Liverpool are reportedly eyeing Newcastle’s teenage talent, Yankuba Minteh, who played on loan at Feyenoord last season under the guidance of head coach Arne Slot.
Liverpool could take advantage of Newcastle’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) concerns by pursuing teenage winger Yankuba Minteh.
The Gambia international, who spent last season on loan at Feyenoord, caught the eye of new Reds boss Arne Slot.
Minteh, 19, was acquired by Newcastle for just $8 million (£6.5 million/€7.6 million) a year ago. However, he was immediately loaned out to Feyenoord, where he impressed by scoring 10 goals.
Initially, he was expected to return to St James’ Park for pre-season for Eddie Howe to assess his progress.
According to the Telegraph, Newcastle are now contemplating letting Minteh go this summer and Liverpool are among several clubs that have ‘expressed an interest’ in signing him when the transfer window opens.
Newcastle face pressure to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules, necessitating player sales. Bruno Guimaraes has attracted attention from numerous clubs, and there is also interest in Alexander Isak.
Allowing Minteh to leave would facilitate retaining these two key players, with Liverpool reportedly competing with Serie A and Bundesliga teams for his signature. It is suggested that Newcastle would consider offers around $51 million (£40 million/€47 million).
Liverpool are anticipated to seek another attacking wide player this summer, and Slot holds Minteh in high regard, having worked with him in Rotterdam last season.
Minteh had an impressive debut at Feyenoord, earning high praise from Slot following a 4-0 victory over Ajax in September. “He certainly doesn’t lack self-confidence. His willingness to give everything is enormous,” he said.
“When we see his statistics, it is really impressive. Minteh ran more sprint meters against Ajax in an hour than many players in the two games. He is incredibly fast.”
Slot consistently trusted the young player throughout the season and expressed to the Dutch publication Rondo in March that Minteh could achieve top-tier status if he keeps refining his decision-making skills.
This interest arises amid ongoing speculation about Luis Diaz’s future at Anfield. Despite being on the same contract terms he agreed to in 2022, Diaz might be sold due to interest from PSG and Barcelona.
Slot clearly admires Minteh and was eager to work with him last season. With Newcastle under pressure to sell this summer, Liverpool might take advantage by making a bid.
Slot places significant importance on his wingers and is keen to bring another to Anfield. Minteh could prove to be an excellent addition.
In other Liverpool news, Liverpool Close to Selling First Player Under Arne Slot as Clubs Begin Negotiations