Ghana international Tariq Lamptey has explained the thinking behind his decision to join Championship side Queens Park Rangers on a permanent deal during the current transfer window, saying the club’s ambition for the season ahead was central to his choice.
The 25-year-old right-back joins QPR on a free transfer following his departure from Fiorentina, where a serious knee injury sidelined him for the majority of last season.
The Serie A club opted not to continue with the defender once his contract situation was resolved, bringing an early end to a stint in Italy that had begun with plenty of promise just a year earlier.
Despite the setback, the Black Stars defender has moved quickly to secure a fresh start, with QPR bringing him in as they look to mount a serious push in the Championship this season.
Speaking after completing his move, Lamptey said the vision laid out by the club’s hierarchy played a key role in convincing him to sign.
I’m excited for the opportunity ahead. When I spoke to the gaffer and Christian (Nourry), the project was an encouraging one. The team have ambitious goals for this season, so I’m looking forward to it.” Tariq Lamptey, on joining Queens Park Rangers
Born in Hillingdon, Lamptey came through Chelsea’s academy and made his Premier League debut against Arsenal in December 2019, before completing a move to Brighton & Hove Albion the following month. He went on to make more than 120 appearances for the Seagulls, establishing himself as one of the division’s most promising young full-backs before a transfer to Fiorentina roughly year ago.
His time in Italy, however, was disrupted by a series of fitness problems, culminating in a serious knee injury that ended his season prematurely and ultimately shaped his exit from the club.
On the international stage, Lamptey has earned 11 caps for Ghana and represented the Black Stars at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Now back in English football, the pacey defender will be hoping to rediscover full fitness and recapture the form that made him one of the Premier League’s most exciting young defenders during his time on England’s south coast.
Player Profile: Tariq Lamptey
Position: Right-back
Born: 30 September 2000, London
Nation: Ghana (11 caps, 2022 World Cup)
Club Career
Chelsea (Academy)
Brighton & Hove Albion (2020–2025). 120+ appearances
Fiorentina (2025–2026)
Queens Park Rangers (2026–present)
Recent Injury History
Ankle injury – March to April 2025
Knee injury – May to August 2025
Knee injury (season-ending), September 2025 to May 2026