Everton came close to signing Tariq Lamptey back in April 2025.
A story from Africa Foot claimed that Everton were favourites to sign the Ghana international as he prepared to leave Brighton, although it was Fiorentina who eventually landed the right-back in a £6m move.
However, after a nightmarish time in Florence, the former Chelsea defender is now set to have his contract terminated – according to Viola News.
What position do Everton need to strengthen in most, right-back or striker?
Everton get second chance to sign Tariq Lamptey as The Friedkin Group target a right-back
The 25-year-old has struggled significantly with injuries since moving to Italy.
Lamptey tore his anterior cruciate ligament against Como in September in just his second appearance for Fiorentina, and is yet to play since.
Viola News say Fiorentina were prepared to be patient, but with the man born in Hillingdon taking longer than expected to recover, a decision has now been made to terminate his contract – which was set to run until July 2028.
Everton do want a new right-back as David Moyes aims to move away from using Jake O’Brien out of position in that area, although the Toffees will surely be sceptical about resurrecting their interest in Lamptey amid doubts over his fitness.
The 5ft 4in speedster was one of the most impressive talents in the Premier League at one stage, scoring goals against Liverpool, Tottenham and Arsenal as he adapted rapidly to senior football.
Ian Wright was even shocked that top clubs were queuing up to take the defender, saying: “I’m quite happy (Tottenham have not signed him) because I literally cannot believe no-one has tried to prise that man out of Brighton.”
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If Everton can get Lamptey fit and back to those levels, signing him on a free transfer could prove to be a stroke of genius in months to come, although it is undoubtedly a gamble considering Fiorentina have opted to go as far as ripping up his contract.
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