BRIGHTON are set to join the auction for Blackburn striker Adam Armstrong — and give West Ham a run for their money.
The Seagulls are desperate for a finisher and have been sending top spies to watch the former Newcastle prospect in action recently.
Brighton are set to join the auction for Blackburn striker Adam ArmstrongCredit: Rex Features
Hammers are keen on Armstrong but reluctant to pay the asking price of £25million.
Brighton may go close as he fits the bill — and Albion have struggled for goals this term.
Armstrong, 24, is a more natural finisher than anyone they have and is also young and English.
His wages would not be too high for them, either.
Rovers are slowly becoming resigned to selling him this summer.
Brighton also have several players they could throw into a swap deal either on a permanent or loan basis.
Albion’s star wingback Tariq Lamptey, who they signed from Chelsea, also has an uncertain future at the Amex.
After a stellar 12 months for Graham Potter’s side, the right-back has already been linked with a move away
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And if he does leave Brighton in the summer, Chelsea will receive a percentage of Brighton’s fee due to a clause in his contract.
When Lamptey joined the south coast outfit, Brighton agreed an undisclosed sell-on clause with Chelsea.
Arsenal have since emerged as the front-runners to sign the England youngster.
The Gunners could well be looking to improve the right side of their defence, which is currently occupied by Hector Bellerin – who is wanted by Paris Saint-Germain.
But negotiations will be complicated by the fee Chelsea are entitled to, which could mean Brighton drive the price up significantly to ensure it is a financially viable deal for them.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk