Ralf Rangnick wants an ‘upgrade on his existing options’ at right-back as Manchester United have shown ‘strong interest’ in Brighton star Tariq Lamptey, according to stunning reports.
The United interim manager remains undecided on his first-choice right-back and has often rotated between Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot in recent weeks.
Rangnick, who will become a consultant at United after his caretaker spell, wants to secure an “upgrade” on Wan-Bissaka and Dalot for the remainder of the season.
Lamptey made only three senior appearances for Chelsea before he was snapped up by Brighton in January 2020.
The 21-year-old defender was hit with a lengthy spell on the sideline due to a hamstring injury, but Lamptey has since returned for Brighton.
Lamptey, who came through the ranks at Chelsea, has started seven times in 12 Premier League appearances for the Seagulls this season.
Read More:
According to The Daily Mail, United could be prepared to make a move for the Brighton right-back in a bid to bolster Rangnick’s squad options.
It has been reported that the Red Devils value Lamptey at around £30m and hold a ‘strong interest’ in the former Chelsea defender.
But Brighton are expected to play hardball with United and demand around £40m for Lamptey, who is under contract until 2025.
United could face tough competition in the race to sign Lamptey, with Arsenal and Tottenham heavily linked with the England Under-21s international in recent weeks.
Former Leeds and Coventry City striker Noel Whelan believes that Lamptey is the type of player who would “slot straight” into Mikel Arteta’s plans at Arsenal.
“They’re looking for youth at Arsenal at the moment, they’re looking to rebuild,” he told Football Insider.
Read More:
“They’ve got an exciting, young side now with the players they’ve brought in from elsewhere and the players they’ve brought through their youth setup.
“I think Lamptey would slot straight into Arteta’s plans. Box-to-box, very exciting going forward, can defend.
“When he goes forward, he goes forward with real intent. The pace of him will frighten most full-backs in the Premier League -- he’s so exciting to watch.
“He’s one of the best talents in the league, and I’m sure Arsenal would have some real competition to get him.”
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Ralf Rangnick, Manchester United, Brighton And Hove Albion, Premier League, England, Football
Adnan Riaz