Brighton are one of the most exciting teams in world football, but they have their flaws. One of the club’s biggest flaws right now is the lack of a solid right back. According to RTI Esporte, the Seagulls are finally getting ready to address this problem and spend on a right back this summer.
The Brazilian news outlet claims that the Seagulls have bid €4 million on Flamengo fullback Wesley França. The report says Brighton have also offered a 20% sell-on clause as a part of the deal.
The 20-year-old has been a mainstay for the Rubro-Negro since breaking into the squad last season. Because of this Flamengo have rejected Brighton’s offer. Flamengo reportedly want at least €8 million for Wesley.
It’s unclear whether Brighton are willing to meet Flamengo’s asking price, but with how badly they need a right back, we wouldn’t be surprised to see the South Coast club double their bid for Wesley.
Lamptey fits that bill, but his injury history and defensive shortcomings means that he’s not a reliable option either. Pascal Groß has occasionally played fullback for De Zerbi too, but no one wants to see the Seagulls’ star midfielder stuck in defense.
Wesley could be the answer to their fullback problem that Brighton is looking for. The 20-year-old Atlético Tubarão product is very good with the ball at his feet and comfortable dribbling the ball out of pressure. Wesley is also fairly solid defensively, despite his thin, 5’8” frame.
The numbers back up the eye test on Wesley as well. FBREF has Wesley in the 79th percentile of fullbacks in the top 14 leagues in the world for successful take ons.
He’s in the 98th percentile for pass completion, 86th percentile for touches in the opposition penalty area, and 99th percentile for progressive passes received. On the defensive end, Wesley is in the 79th percentile for tackles, 80th for aerial duels won, and 69th for interceptions.
Brighton were linked to Wesley in the January transfer window. Benfica are also reportedly interested in the Brazilian.
There are obviously questions about how Wesley will adapt to the pace of the Premier League, especially considering that he likes to dwell on the ball. With that being said, Wesley has a lot of upside. For €8 million, he’s worth taking a chance on.
