Transfer Talk: United want Lamptey to light up Old Trafford

Manchester United have set their sights on Brighton right-back Tariq Lamptey.

The former Chelsea man, 21, has emerged as one of England’s most exciting youngsters after some fine displays on the South Coast.

United boss Ralf Rangnick has switched between Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot on the right of his defence since arriving last November and is reportedly looking to strengthen this month.

The Mail say the Red Devils are ready to move for Lamptey, who they value at around £30million.

But it is understood the Seagulls are holding out for closer to £40m for the England Under-21 star.

Lamptey has become a fan favourite at the Amex Stadium and it remains to be seen whether Graham Potter will allow the defender to leave mid-season.

He is also capable of playing as a wing-back and provides a greater threat going forward than Wan-Bissaka, whose attacking output has raised questions for much of his time at Old Trafford.

With United looking to improve on their current position of seventh in the Premier League, right-back and holding midfield are seen as the two positions most in need of improvement.

And one midfielder they could soon bring in is Borussia Monchengladbach's Denis Zakaria.

German journalist Christian Falk claims the Red Devils have submitted an offer to the 25-year-old Swiss international. 

His contract expires in the summer but Falk claims United are willing to pay a fee now to get the deal done this month.

In other news

Arsenal have identified Juventus ace Arthur Melo and Leicester’s Youri Tielemans as targets as they look to strengthen their midfield during the January sales. 

Goal claim the Gunners have made contact over a loan deal for Melo, while Tielemans is also being monitored after another strong season so far with the Foxes.

TalkSPORT say Newcastle have made a fresh £28m bid for Sevilla defender Diego Carlos after failing with their original £25m offer.

The Brazil international has a growing reputation in Spain and the Magpies are keen to add him and two other centre-backs to Eddie Howe's squad before the window slams shut. 

West Ham target Gabriel Barbosa is ready to tell Flamengo he wants to leave and move to England, according to Sky Sports.

The Hammers have reportedly offered to take the striker on an 18-month loan with the option of making the deal permanent for £25m.