Arsenal are reportedly eyeing Brighton & Hove Albion right-back Tariq Lamptey as a potential successor to Hector Bellerin, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
With Hector Bellerin linked with a transfer abroad, Arsenal might have to scout for a new right-back this summer, and it seems they are already putting together a shopping list of possible replacements.
Mikel Arteta reportedly promised Bellerin a conversation about his future this summer after persuading his fellow countryman to stay for the 2020/21 season.
Tariq Lamptey has recently signed a new contract with the Seagulls, who acted quickly after realising his potential. Under contract until 2025 at the Amex Stadium, it could take a big fee to secure his services.
The 20-year-old is one of the most promising young players in his position in England, having broken into the Brighton first team last season.
The English player has missed a large portion of the 2020-21 season due to a hamstring injury, but he did begin the season well, scoring one goal and assisting three times in 11 Premier League appearances.
Can Tariq Lamptey strengthen Arsenal?
Lamptey is a quintessential modern-day full-back who is expected to assist the team’s attack by providing extra width. In this regard, he is similar to other top-class full-backs like Robertson, Trent, Trippier to name a few.
Lamptey is a quick player, which gives him an advantage in both defence and attack. The former Chelsea prospect’s extraordinary pace allows him to convert defence into attack almost instantly. His pace, on the other hand, also aids him in making clearances and tackling players to halt counter-attacks.
As a 20-year-old, he is a player who isn’t afraid to take on and dribble past defenders. The combination of dribbling and pace is lethal, making it more difficult for opponents to prevent his crosses from coming into the area.
With Tariq Lamptey and Bukayo Saka both capable of playing at right-back and right-wing respectively, the Gunners will have a seriously fast right-hand side from which to create problems for opposing teams.
The only problem coming to the fore is that Arsenal would be left a little light on that side, given Saka and Lamptey’s diminutive stature despite their obvious defensive abilities that far outweigh their size.
When it comes to physique and weight, Lamptey does not seem to be as powerful as the other players. This is one of his most significant flaws, and it prevents him from winning aerial duels. If a player with strong physical strength comes up against Lamptey, he can be quickly muscled away.
But, there is no doubt that such a signing would boost the Arsenal team and something Arsenal will surely consider pursuing if Hector Bellerin does near the exit door.