Newcastle United want to sign Yankuba Minteh, and Yankuba Minteh wants to sign for Newcastle United. However, his international manager does not believe it is a good idea.
Minteh recently emerged as a target for the Magpies, with a recent story claiming that he was close to agreeing a move to Newcastle ahead of the summer transfer window.
The 18-year-old then ignited the rumours further, telling the media in Denmark that he is interested in leaving Odense BK to sign for Eddie Howe’s side.
Since then, there has been no more speculation about the Gambian signing for the Magpies, who continue to focus on qualifying for the Champions League.
Finishing in the top four will make St James’ Park an even more attractive destination for players. However, Minteh’s international boss has suggested that the winger should think twice before agreeing to sign for Newcastle.
International boss does it is ‘a bit early’ for Yankuba Minteh to sign for Newcastle
The Gambia Under-20 manager Abdoulie Bojang has spoke to Tipsbladet, and offered his thoughts on Minteh possibly signing for Newcastle this summer.
“I always tell young players that they should not overestimate their own abilities,” he said.
“I still think it’s a bit early. He is still young. He lacks experience. If he goes to a big club and doesn’t perform, he’s stuck.”
Dan Ashworth will have a plan if Newcastle make a move
Bojang’s concerns are very understandable, as he does not want to see one of his young stars fall between the cracks. He is scared that a move to a big club like Newcastle could stunt Minteh’s growth.
However, the Magpies will have a plan in place if they do decide to make a move for the attacker.
Part of Dan Ashworth’s job as Sporting Director is to ensure that there is a clear route from the academy to the first-team, creating an environment where players can develop and become the best versions of themselves.
He is already doing that on Tyneside, ensuring that Elliot Anderson, Lewis Miley and more achieve their potential. Then there is Garang Kuol, who joined the club at the start of the year. He is a typical Ashworth signing, and someone that the club have high hopes for.
So while talk of a move to Newcastle for Minteh is scaring the Gambia Under-20s boss, he has no reason to panic.
Minteh will not get lost in the shuffle on Tyneside. As long as he is applying himself and showing signs of developing into a Premier League player, he will be given every chance of succeeding in a black and white shirt.
Now we wait to see if he really is on his way to Newcastle.
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