Why Liverpool must pull the plug on Yankuba Minteh deal as full details emerge
Yankuba Minteh has emerged as a shock target for Liverpool this summer transfer window as the club continues to search for Mohamed Salah’s replacement.
Reports emerged on Thursday that the Reds have made an offer worth around £50million for the Brighton and Hove Albion winger.
This bid has since been rejected, but the 22-year-old is keen on a move to Anfield this summer.
Nevertheless, there is little evidence to suggest that The Gambia international is what Liverpool needs right now.
Despite helping Brighton qualify for the Conference League last season, Minteh did not massively contribute in front of goal.
This is shown in his stats, which show exactly why Liverpool need to pull out of any potential deal.
What are Yankuba Minteh’s stats?
Last season, Minteh was solid in the Premier League.
In the 34 matches he played in the Premier League, he scored three times and picked up four assists.
As a result, according to Fotmob on 21 August, he averaged 0.11 goals, a 0.14 xG, 1.54 shots, 0.41 shots on target, 0.15 assists, a 0.19 xA, 2.44 successful dribbles with a 53.7 overall success rate and 6.94 touches in the opposition box.
While there is no doubt that these are decent stats, it is clear that Minteh is not an incredible player.
Therefore, if Liverpool were to bring him through the door, his lack of conviction in front of goal would make him a poor replacement for Salah.
The Reds should instead look for more convincing options and move on from Minteh after their bid was rejected, according to The Athletic.
Who else are Liverpool linked with this summer?
Bradley Barcola has been heavily linked with a switch to Liverpool this summer.
The PSG winger has emerged as one of the most promising talents in world football after being part of a golden era at the French club.
However, Football Insider has exclusively revealed that Barcola’s potential move to Liverpool is stalling.
Negotiations are ongoing, but the signing is being held up due to the different valuations both clubs have on the price tag.
Nevertheless, it remains to be seen who Liverpool are able to bring through the door before the transfer window closes on 1 September.