Full Breakdown
Liverpool’s Pursuit of Winger Yankuba Minteh and Interest in Real Madrid’s Endrick
8/23/2026, 1:59:45 AM
Core Event
Liverpool have made two bids for Brighton winger Yankuba Minte h – £50 million and £60 million – both rejected. Brighton value him above £70 million. Liverpool have also asked Real Madrid about Brazilian forward Endrick; Madrid say the 20-year-old will stay for the foreseeable future.
Background & Context
Mohamed Salah’s departure left Liverpool short on the right wing. New manager Andoni Iraola has said the squad is “thin” and needs more wingers before the season. Recent activity includes signing Victor Muñoz from Osasuna and talks on PSG wingers Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye, the latter deemed too expensive.
Data & Statistics
- Yankuba Minteh (22) – 10 goals, 9 assists in 73 Premier League games; recovering from right-leg surgery, out three months.
- Endrick (20) – 8 goals, 8 assists in 21 Ligue 1 matches for Lyon on loan; under contract with Real Madrid until 2030.
Official Statements & Responses
“As a manager, this is an easy one for me. I wanted the players for the first day on 13 July…” — Andoni Iraola
Brighton’s David Ornstein (The Athletic) says the club will consider offers “in excess of £70 million” and cites injury risk.
Real Madrid, via Fabrizio Romano, have rejected any immediate departure for Endrick.
Criticism & Opposition
Brighton’s own manager warned the price may inflate the market, but the club insists it reflects Minteh’s talent and injury risk.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Exact fee remains undisclosed.
- Endrick’s availability: The Times reported Liverpool inquired about a loan or permanent deal, while Romano later said “no doors are open” for Endrick now.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As a manager, this is an easy one for me. I wanted the players for the first day on 13 July - everyone here and all the positions doubled with top-level players,” — Andoni Iraola
- “They will [try to sign him for cheaper because of the injury] but Brighton, now he is a coveted talent, want £70m in excess of add-ons, but I'm not sure Liverpool want to go that far. The injury is a concern but if you're so convinced by the talent you can probably take the risk.” — David Ornstein
- “We know in general, all the players who there are rumours about are important players, they've been part of the journey over the last two years. Brighton and Hove Albion Aston Villa Sunday 23rd August 1:00pm Kick off 2:00pm” — Fabian Hurzeler
What’s Next
The transfer window closes on 1 September. Liverpool are expected to consider a third, higher bid for Minteh, possibly above £70 million. Endrick’s situation is unlikely to change before the deadline, leaving Liverpool to focus on Minteh and other winger targets.
