Yankuba Minteh: Liverpool To Sieze Upon Newcastle’s PSR Mess?
Rising Star
In the recent episode of the Daily Red Podcast from Anfield Index, Dave Davis brings exciting news for Liverpool fans about the potential signing of Newcastle’s 19-year-old winger, Yankuba Minteh. This Gambian prodigy, currently playing for Feyenoord, has caught the eye of several clubs, including Liverpool, due to his stellar performances and impressive stats.
Liverpool’s Interest in Minteh
Luke Edwards of the Daily Telegraph broke the news, revealing that Newcastle’s financial fair play (FFP) concerns have made Minteh available for transfer. As Davis explains, “Liverpool and other clubs will have to stump up a fee around £40 million because that is Newcastle’s asking price.” This fee, while significant, reflects Minteh’s potential and the financial constraints Newcastle faces.
Minteh’s statistics are particularly noteworthy. He recorded 11 goals and 7 assists last season, playing just under 2000 minutes across all competitions. Davis highlights, “He had a decent season, got stronger as it went on, 11 goals, 7 assists, got one in the Champions League as well.” These numbers indicate a player on the rise, ready to make a mark at a bigger club like Liverpool.
Michael Edwards’ Approval
Minteh’s playing style and potential have drawn comparisons to the type of signings Liverpool’s former sporting director, Michael Edwards, would have pursued. Davis mentions, “When you look at the player, he does have a bit of a Michael Edwards style feel to him.” This endorsement suggests that Minteh fits the profile of a Liverpool player—talented, young, and with room to grow.
Moreover, Minteh’s advanced metrics are impressive. Davis notes, “His successful take-on rate also puts him in the 99th percentile according to FB ref for attackers and wingers.” This ability to progress the ball and beat defenders is a valuable asset for any top club, particularly Liverpool, known for their dynamic and attacking style of play.
The Competitive Edge
Comparing Minteh to another potential target, Johan Bakayoko, Davis points out, “Bakayoko’s got 14 goals and 14 assists, but if you look at Minteh’s attributes—his pace, his left-footed, right winger element—I understand why Minteh would be liked a lot more by fans.” This comparison underscores Minteh’s unique qualities that could make him a better fit for Liverpool.
Bigger Picture
Signing Minteh would align with Liverpool’s strategy of developing young talent. As Davis suggests, “If Edwards and Hughes want that project winger, this could potentially be the boy.” This strategic approach has previously seen Liverpool nurture players into top-tier stars, and Minteh could be the next in line.
However, Davis warns that the transfer fee might be a sticking point, stating, “£40 million, forget it, in fact, he’ll probably be closer to the half mark, and I’d say £20 to £25 million.” This figure, though higher, reflects Minteh’s market value and the competitive nature of such transfers.
The potential signing of Yankuba Minteh by Liverpool represents a strategic move to bolster their squad with young, promising talent. With his impressive stats, playing style, and potential, Minteh could become a key player for Liverpool in the coming years. As Dave Davis eloquently puts it, “Yankuba Minteh for Liverpool, I would not dismiss that at all. I think that is distinctly one to keep an eye on.”
For Liverpool fans, this transfer window is shaping up to be an exciting period. Keep tuning into the Daily Red Podcast for the latest updates and insights.
