Tariq Lamptey is reportedly attracting serious interest from Olympique de Marseille as the Ghanaian full-back edges closer to the end of his contract with Brighton & Hove Albion.
With no extension in sight, Lamptey appears increasingly likely to part ways with the Premier League side this summer.
Although Brighton are keen to retain the 23-year-old, negotiations between the player and the club have seemingly stalled.
Now, as the transfer window approaches, Marseille have emerged as a strong contender for his signature.
According to reports, the Ligue 1 outfit, under the sporting direction of Mehdi Benatia, is eager to act decisively in the upcoming market.
The potential free transfer of Lamptey presents a low-risk opportunity to address glaring defensive issues that plagued OM throughout the season.
The club’s interest is also understood to align with Roberto De Zerbi’s plans for defensive reinforcements.
De Zerbi, newly appointed as Marseille’s manager, is believed to have prioritised strengthening the flanks after a season in which the team struggled to maintain consistency at the back.
Lamptey, a former Chelsea youth product, has had a difficult campaign with Brighton, largely defined by inconsistency and limited playing time.
Despite making 20 appearances across competitions, only 14 of those came as a starter.
His current situation has prompted a search for a new challenge — one where he can secure regular minutes and reignite his career trajectory.
While several clubs across Europe are said to be monitoring Lamptey’s availability, Marseille’s swift approach and the prospect of first-team football in Ligue 1 could give them the edge.
Benatia is reportedly determined to make early moves in the market to avoid being caught in bidding wars later in the summer.
A switch to Marseille would not only offer Lamptey a fresh start but also inject pace and dynamism into a side eager to bounce back from a disappointing campaign.
With no transfer fee required, the move represents both a strategic and financially prudent option for OM.
As the summer window draws near, Lamptey’s future may soon be resolved — and Marseille are positioning themselves to pounce at just the right moment.