16 Jun 2025, Mon

Manchester United’s Pursuit of Yankuba Minteh

Manchester United’s transfer strategy under Ruben Amorim is taking shape, with Brighton’s dynamic winger Yankuba Minteh emerging as a top target for the summer window. Following a disappointing 15th-place finish in the Premier League, United are determined to overhaul their squad and inject new energy into their attack.

Who is Yankuba Minteh?

Yankuba Minteh, 20, is a Gambian winger who enjoyed a breakout 2024/25 season at Brighton & Hove Albion after a £30 million move from Newcastle United. Despite Newcastle’s reluctance to sell, financial pressures forced their hand, allowing Brighton to secure a player who quickly became one of the Premier League’s most exciting young talents.

Minteh’s stats from last season underline his impact:

  • 7 goals and 5 assists in 37 league appearances for Brighton
  • Outstanding defensive work rate, ranking in the 96th percentile for tackles and 97th for clearances among wingers in Europe
  • Versatility to play on either wing, with a preference for the right side

His standout performance at Old Trafford in January—scoring and assisting in Brighton’s 3-1 win—left a lasting impression on United’s hierarchy and supporters alike.

Why Do United Want Minteh?

Ruben Amorim’s system demands pace, verticality, and technical confidence in the final third. Minteh’s “explosive speed,” “final touch,” and ability to cut inside from the right make him an ideal fit for the manager’s preferred 3-4-2-1 or dual No 10 formations. United’s recruitment team has been “excited” by his flair and physical dynamism, seeing him as a perfect foil for new signing Matheus Cunha.

With alternative targets like Bryan Mbeumo and Rayan Cherki proving difficult to secure, Minteh has become a more tangible and realistic option for United’s attacking rebuild.

The Competition and Transfer Dynamics

Manchester United are not alone in their pursuit. Arsenal, Liverpool, and other top clubs are also monitoring Minteh, whose performances have put him on the radar of England’s elite. Brighton, known for tough negotiations, are expected to demand a significant fee after paying £30 million just a year ago.

United are “keeping tabs” on Minteh’s situation, but any deal will require both financial muscle and a compelling sporting project to convince Brighton to sell and Minteh to choose Old Trafford over rival suitors.

What Happens Next?

With Matheus Cunha’s transfer nearly complete, United’s focus is firmly on bolstering their attack further. Amorim’s clear tactical vision and proactive approach in the market have fans optimistic that Minteh could be the next statement signing of the new era at Old Trafford.

In Summary: Manchester United’s interest in Yankuba Minteh is serious and strategic, targeting a player who combines youth, Premier League experience, and the attributes needed to thrive under Amorim. Whether United can outmaneuver their rivals and Brighton’s negotiating stance will define one of the summer’s most intriguing transfer sagas.

By Admin