Free‑transfer coup: QPR snatch former Brighton right‑back Lamptey

Two appearances for Fiorentina were all 25‑year‑old Tariq Lamptey managed before Queens Park Rangers secured his services on a free transfer, ending his brief, injury‑marred spell with the Serie A Italian side. The right‑back arrives at the club after terminating his contract, hoping to revive his career in the Championship.

Lamptey terminated his contract with the Serie A Italian side, concluding a short stint that produced only two matches. The free move to Queens Park Rangers follows that abrupt exit, as confirmed by [Getty Images].

He joined Fiorentina from Brighton in September 2025, but a serious knee injury restricted him to just two appearances. The injury‑marred spell limited his impact in Italy.

Lamptey began his professional journey at Chelsea, making his Premier League debut against Arsenal. He later transferred to the Seagulls, where he amassed more than 120 appearances.

"My recovery (from injury) has gone well and I'm not too far away now. I'm looking forward to joining with the boys," Lamptey said on the club website. He added that resilience has defined his football journey.

Internationally, Lamptey represented Ghana at the 2022 World Cup and has earned 11 senior caps after switching allegiance from England, following two under‑21 outings. His experience adds a global dimension to QPR's squad.

Chief executive Christian Nourry explained, "We've had good conversations about what he wants to achieve and how he feels that this is the right environment for him to flourish in. His decision to join QPR over a myriad of other EFL Championship clubs and clubs abroad is a further signal of the growing potential of this football club."

QPR have not disclosed the length or financial terms of Lamptey's contract. The squad begin the new Championship campaign away at Portsmouth on Saturday, 15 August at 15:00 BST.

Securing a player of Lamptey's pedigree on a free deal highlights the competitive nature of the transfer market, where clubs across the Championship and abroad vie for experienced talent without transfer fees.