Brighton Hold Firm on Minteh as Hurzeler Leaves Door Open to Future Move

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler has told Yankuba Minteh that another opportunity to secure his desired transfer could come if the winger first helps the Seagulls succeed. BBC Sport reported on Friday that Brighton rejected two Liverpool offers for the 22-year-old Gambia international during the transfer window, keeping an important attacking player at the Amex Stadium.

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According to the BBC, Liverpool submitted bids worth £50 million and £60 million as manager Andoni Iraola looked to add to his attacking options. Brighton were understood to want a fee closer to £70 million. No agreement was reached before the window closed, leaving Minteh to begin another season under Hurzeler.

Hurzeler addressed the situation before Brighton's Premier League match against Leeds on Saturday. He said Minteh could attract renewed interest and perhaps fulfil his dream in a future window if Brighton perform well collectively and the player stands out within that success. The manager also said the winger is definitely committed to the club following the failed move.

Minteh joined Brighton from Newcastle United for £30 million in 2024. Operating primarily from the right, he has recorded 10 goals and nine assists across 73 appearances for the Seagulls, according to the BBC. Hurzeler stressed that Minteh has already achieved important things with his teammates and now needs to commit fully while wearing Brighton's colours.

Brighton's decision to retain Minteh came during a window in which the club still generated major funds from other departures. BBC Sport reported that midfielder Carlos Baleba moved to Manchester United for £70 million. Brighton then completed a deadline-day deal for Stuttgart defensive midfielder Chema Andres worth £15.5 million, adding the 21-year-old Spaniard to Hurzeler's squad.

Andres made 41 appearances for Stuttgart last season after joining the German club from Real Madrid in 2025. He had progressed through Real Madrid's youth system and made his La Liga debut in January 2025 before helping Stuttgart qualify for the Champions League. Hurzeler said he understands comparisons between Andres and Rodri because of the newcomer's ambition, while cautioning that the young midfielder still has a long way to go.