Newcastle United prospect Yankuba Minteh is reportedly attracting interest from both Liverpool and Everton
Newcastle United have turned down initial interest from Liverpool in their teenage sensation, Yankuba Minteh. According to senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Liverpool had their eyes on Minteh due to his connections with Arne Slot, who managed the Gambian winger at Feyenoord last season. The 19-year-old enjoyed a fruitful loan spell in Rotterdam, scoring 10 goals in 27 Eredivisie matches.
A player of immense potential
Newcastle United, who initially signed Minteh from Danish club OB for around £6.8 million (€8 million) last summer, sent him on loan to Feyenoord where he thrived under Slot’s guidance. With four years left on his current contract at Newcastle, the club stands to make a considerable profit should they decide to sell.
Magpies manager Eddie Howe is keen to keep Minteh, especially given the injury issues the squad faced last season. However, the club must navigate Financial Fair Play regulations while retaining key players such as Bruno Guimaraes and Alexander Isak. This financial balancing act means that selling Minteh, despite his potential, could be necessary.
Everton have also shown interest in Minteh, joining a host of clubs keen on the 19-year-old. Newcastle and Everton are already in talks regarding a separate deal for Dominic Calvert-Lewin, adding another layer of complexity to Minteh’s future. The young winger has also made a mark on the international stage, scoring three goals in six matches for the Gambia national team.
Minteh’s impressive performances in the Eredivisie have increased his market value, and Newcastle’s own PSR concerns might push them to cash in on the promising talent. Despite not having played for Newcastle’s first team, Minteh’s success in the Netherlands has made him a sought-after asset.
The Mersey Calling?
Newcastle’s decision to initially rebuff Liverpool’s interest in Yankuba Minteh reflects their recognition of his potential value. However, the club’s financial constraints and need to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations might ultimately force their hand.
Selling Minteh could provide Newcastle with the financial flexibility to retain their star players and strengthen the squad further. Either way, there is no shortage of interest in the player from Merseyside.
