Targeting the Championship’s elite, the Seagulls aim to bolster a weakened frontline by pursuing Millwall’s prolific winger to provide much-needed pace and clinical finishing at the Amex.
Brighton and Hove Albion are set to ramp up their interest in Millwall star man Femi Azeez.
With that in mind, there could be a scenario where Liverpool reignite their interest in Yankuba Minteh before the deadline looms.
Minteh or Azeez?
Albion are not typically a club to leave their business to the final day, but there is certainly a case to be made that additions will be needed. If there is one thing we learned from yesterday, the Seagulls look significantly weakened compared to previous years.
It is looking increasingly likely that Minteh will remain at the club until at least January, when Liverpool could step up their interest. Cody Gakpo will now remain at Anfield after a move to Manchester City collapsed due to insufficient squad depth.
Albion’s move for Azeez is unlikely to depend on Minteh’s future. When looking beyond the Gambian, only Diego Gomez has been a consistent option on the right wing, and most agree that he is simply not that type of player. The Paraguayan is a positive, effective player on a pitch, but he isn’t likely to take on a man and lacks a considerable level of pace.
Who actually is Femi Azeez?
Azeez looks to be a very productive output forward. 25 years of age, and largely regarded as one of the best in the Championship. He was part of the Millwall side which came close to promotion last season, and contributed 11 league goals accompanied by eight assists. 19 total contributions!
An exciting player, he likes to take on his man and cut in on his left foot, and can offer a good ball into the box. His ball striking is very strong, and he has scored some impressive goals from distance for the Lions. Capable of scoring world-class goals on either foot, Azeez has a rather incredible goal catalogue.
Considering the fee that is being discussed, around £15 million to £20 million, it seems like a very smart piece of business if he can step up to Premier League level. Albion have had hits from the Championship in the past, and not least by the name of Joao Pedro from Watford in 2023.
As for Minteh, if he does return to the side after his injury, Albion will have themselves a much stronger squad depth to compete in the Conference League and Premier League simultaneously. Perhaps the wings have been one part of the jigsaw that has lacked significant building for ‘now’ in recent windows.
