West Ham United are reportedly keeping a close eye on Gent full-back Archie Brown as they prepare for a potential move in the January transfer window.
The Hammers are looking to bolster their defensive ranks, and the 22-year-old has emerged as a key target, with sources revealing that his performances in Belgium have caught the attention of West Ham’s recruitment team.
Brown, who has made 23 appearances for Gent in all competitions this season, has been in excellent form, scoring twice and providing four assists. His attacking contribution, coupled with his solid defensive displays, make him an ideal option for West Ham, who are in need of strengthening their full-back options. This interest in Brown comes as West Ham have struggled defensively in the Premier League, having conceded 19 goals in just 11 fixtures so far this season. New manager Julen Lopetegui has made it clear that improving the defence is one of his top priorities, and Brown could be the solution he is looking for.
The interest in Brown isn’t new, as sources suggest that the young defender has been on West Ham’s radar for some time. Senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke confirmed that Brown has been “linked with a move back to England for a long time.” West Ham’s pursuit of Brown is part of a broader strategy to rejuvenate their squad, with the club keen to lower the average age of their team. At just 22, Brown fits this profile, and his potential for development under Lopetegui could make him a long-term asset for the club.
However, securing Brown’s signature may not be straightforward. Despite the Hammers’ interest, sources have indicated that West Ham could face stiff competition for the young full-back, with several other clubs also tracking his progress. Brown’s contract with Gent runs until 2027, giving the Belgian club a strong negotiating position, and any move for the player in January is likely to involve a significant transfer fee. This could complicate matters for West Ham, who will need to act quickly if they want to fend off interest from other suitors.
In addition to Brown, West Ham are reportedly considering other full-back options, including Brighton’s Tariq Lamptey. The former Chelsea academy product has struggled to secure a regular starting spot at Brighton this season, and with his contract set to expire in the summer of 2025, Lamptey could be available for a cut-price deal in January. There is also the possibility that Brighton could look to sell Lamptey in the winter window to avoid losing him on a free transfer at the end of the season.
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Lamptey, known for his blistering pace and attacking flair, would add a different dimension to West Ham’s defensive options. However, his injury record and lack of consistent playing time this season could make the move more risky for the Hammers. Still, with his contract winding down, Lamptey could represent a more affordable alternative to Brown, should West Ham fail to secure the Gent defender.
The urgency for West Ham to strengthen at full-back is clear. Despite making several high-profile signings in recent windows, the Hammers have been vulnerable defensively, and their current full-backs have struggled to make the impact needed in the Premier League. A lack of defensive solidity has cost West Ham valuable points, and strengthening the full-back positions is now a top priority for Lopetegui and his coaching staff.
Brown’s versatility and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively make him a highly attractive prospect for West Ham. His performances in Belgium have proven that he is capable of performing at a high level, and his experience in European competition with Gent would be an added bonus. With West Ham’s defensive woes showing no sign of abating, bringing in a player like Brown could provide the club with the quality and stability they need to push up the Premier League table.
However, the fact that Brown is under contract until 2027 means that Gent will likely be reluctant to let him go unless they receive a significant offer. The club’s strong negotiating position will give them leverage in any potential deal, and West Ham may need to be prepared to offer a substantial fee to secure his services. This could make Brown a more expensive target than some of the other full-backs being considered, including Lamptey.
In the event that West Ham are unable to land Brown in January, the club may need to look at other defensive targets. With the Premier League being highly competitive, the Hammers can’t afford to waste any more time in addressing their defensive weaknesses. The January transfer window represents a crucial opportunity to strengthen the squad and make a push for a more secure mid-table finish in the second half of the season.
As the transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on West Ham and their pursuit of a new full-back. With competition for Brown heating up and the potential for Lamptey to become available, the club has multiple avenues to explore in their quest to improve their defence. If they can secure one of these targets, West Ham will undoubtedly be in a stronger position to compete for a higher Premier League finish.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether West Ham can make a breakthrough in their pursuit of Archie Brown. Whether they manage to land the Gent defender or are forced to explore other options, strengthening the full-back position is essential for the club’s ambitions moving forward. With their defensive frailties still exposed in the league, bringing in fresh talent at full-back could be just what the Hammers need to turn their season around.
Ultimately, securing a player like Brown would be a major statement of intent for West Ham as they look to rebuild under Lopetegui. The 22-year-old has the potential to be a key player for the club in the years to come, and his arrival could help provide the defensive solidity the Hammers so desperately need. However, with strong competition and Gent’s high asking price, West Ham will need to act swiftly and decisively to secure their man.
