'Look where I am now!' - Yankuba Minteh reacts after £33m Newcastle United transfer exit
Yankuba Minteh has revealed his delight at being able to continue his Premier League dream after leaving Newcastle United.
The Gambian has joined Brighton & Hove Albion on a long-term contract in a transfer worth £33million. Minteh only joined the Magpies one year ago from Danish side Odense Boldklub for £7million but pressures to comply with Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) forced a quick profit.
Minteh initially agreed personal terms with Everton last week but talks broke down when a reciprocal deal involving Dominic Calvert-Lewin couldn’t be agreed. The 19-year-old was then pushed in the direction of French outfit Lyon but he reportedly refused to discuss personal terms as he held out for a move to England.
Although the winger won’t carry out his Premier League journey on Tyneside first envisaged, he is thrilled that opportunity is still alive with Brighton. Minteh departs having never kicked a ball in black and white after spending last year on loan at Feyenoord.
“I'm feeling really happy about the move,” Minteh, who scored 11 goals in the Netherlands, told Brighton’s club website.
“Feyenoord was a great experience for me. Everybody loved me, the coaching staff, players - it was like a family. But Brighton is a club which I have watched in the Premier League. It's a good club for young players and the way the young players have progressed here is important for me.
“I think it's a great thing to move to [another] Premier League club. Although I didn't play any games for Newcastle look where I am now! I have the chance at Brighton in the Premier League.”
Meanwhile, Brighton technical director David Weir has suggested Minteh will be part of new manager Fabian Hurzeler’s first plans for the upcoming season.
“Yankuba is a young talent that has attracted a lot of interest, so we’re delighted to welcome him to the club.
"He is an exciting attacking player with incredible speed. He had a very impressive campaign with Feyenoord, gaining experience in both the Champions League and Europa League. Now we will give him the time and support he needs to ensure that he settles in.”