Everton Face Ajax Competition for Brighton Defender | OneFootball

Everton Eye Tariq Lamptey in Full-Back Overhaul

Everton’s summer rebuild looks poised to begin with an exciting yet pragmatic move for Brighton’s Tariq Lamptey, as reported by AfricaFoot. With veteran stalwarts Ashley Young and Seamus Coleman nearing the end of their contracts, and Nathan Patterson struggling to convince, the Toffees are desperate for a full-back refresh.

Lamptey, 24, is set to be available on a free transfer after no extension materialised at Brighton. As AfricaFoot revealed, “Brighton right-back Lamptey has been identified as a target by Everton. The 24-year-old is set to be out of contract in June and so far there has been no indication that he’ll sign an extension.”

A free signing is invaluable to Everton’s balancing act under PSR (Profitability and Sustainability Rules), particularly with new owners The Friedkin Group backing David Moyes for a crucial summer of rebuilding.

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Competition for Lamptey Heats Up

However, Everton’s path to Lamptey isn’t clear. Dutch giants Ajax are circling, and a move abroad could appeal to the ambitious Ghanaian international. As AfricaFoot confirmed, “Everton face competition, with Dutch giants Ajax also very interested in signing Lamptey on a free, per the report.”

Lamptey’s Premier League experience — 120 appearances, five goals, and 11 assists — offers proven pedigree. His dynamism would offer Everton a genuine outlet, something painfully lacking when Patterson floundered during the recent 1-0 defeat to Chelsea.

Moyes’ decision to start Patterson backfired, with the Scotsman “found out time and again”, reinforcing the urgent need for reliable reinforcement at right-back.

Lamptey’s New Challenge Beckons

Lamptey’s career, once so bright at Brighton, seems ready for a new chapter. “The Ghanaian international seems ready to take on a new challenge and it remains to be seen whether he’ll opt to join Everton or head to Ajax or somewhere else to test himself abroad,” the original report notes.

From an Everton perspective, capturing Lamptey would tick several boxes: Premier League experience, low cost, and major upside. His arrival would also symbolise the changing of the guard as the club potentially transitions Seamus Coleman into a coaching role.

Wider Transfer Plans Take Shape

Lamptey isn’t the only target either. AfricaFoot highlights that Everton have broader ambitions: striker Evan Ferguson (on loan at West Ham) remains on the radar, as does Leicester’s Victor Kristiansen to bolster the left flank.

Central defence is another pressing area, with Burnley’s Maxime Esteve, Nottingham Forest’s Andrew Omobamidele, and Basaksehir’s Jerome Opoku all reportedly shortlisted to replace the likely outgoing Michael Keane.

Everton’s summer promises to be one of evolution rather than revolution — but Lamptey’s potential signing would represent a significant early win.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From an excited Evertonian’s point of view, this Lamptey pursuit feels like a long-overdue injection of pace, flair, and resilience at full-back. Watching Patterson struggle against Chelsea made it brutally clear: we simply cannot step into another season without serious reinforcements down the right side. Lamptey fits the bill perfectly. He’s fast, Premier League-tested, and hungry for a fresh start — exactly the type of player who can become a fan favourite at Goodison Park.

What’s even more encouraging is that he could arrive on a free transfer, allowing Moyes and The Friedkin Group to allocate funds elsewhere. Considering the pressing need to reinforce central defence, left-back, and even up top, this smart, cost-effective business could be a turning point in Everton’s recruitment approach.

There’s always a bit of scepticism, though. Ajax’s interest is real and could prove tempting for Lamptey. Dutch football offers an attractive platform for players seeking to rebuild their careers away from the intense Premier League spotlight. Everton must act decisively to convince him that Goodison, despite the challenges, is the right place for his next chapter.

Still, if Moyes gets his man, it could be one of the smartest deals of the summer.