Arsenal would strengthen their squad if they do make a move for Brighton’s Tariq Lamptey, according to Noel Whelan.

The former Leeds United striker claims that the right-back could help the Gunners as they aim to close the gap on the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea:

“Lamptey is very exciting, very quick. You can imagine him and Saka down that right-hand side. It would be phenomenal – try and keep up with those two guys. He’s done enough, he is an exciting player. It won’t only be Arsenal looking at him. There will be other clubs sniffing around him if he keeps playing the way he’s playing. A really good young player. Arsenal are showing the intention of not wanting to stop where they are. They’re wanting to progress, bring new players in, strengthen the squad and push forward towards Man City, Liverpool and Chelsea. That’s where you’re used to seeing Arsenal, in that top four.”

Tottenham were linked with Lamptey in the summer, when it was claimed that Brighton would hold out for a fee in the region of £50m, but Arsenal also have a longstanding interest in the wingback.

Having negotiated a deal for Ben White recently, they are on good terms with the Seagulls so you wouldn’t rule out Mikel Arteta’s side making a move for Lamptey in the future.

It must be pointed out, though, that the Gunners did recently sign Takehiro Tomiyasu to play in the same position, and the Japanese international has been an excellent addition so far. It means any deal for Lamptey is unlikely to happen anytime soon.