Coventry City are eyeing Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Carl Rushworth after a proposed move to Rangers fell through.
The Sky Blues have turned their attention to the 24-year-old as they continue reshaping their squad under new boss Frank Lampard.
Rushworth Becomes Coventry’s Priority as Goalkeeper Search Intensifies
With their goalkeeping department in flux, Coventry are pushing to sign Rushworth on loan following the collapse of his switch to Rangers. The Brighton stopper had been expected to join the Scottish side, but that deal is now off the table, leaving the Sky Blues with a renewed opportunity to make their move.
Understand Carl Rushworth to #Rangers is off as it stands. #BHAFC not willing to sanction the deal. Belgian champions Union Saint Gilloise have also made an offer but played not keen. #CoventryCity #PUSB showing strong interest.
— Alex Crook ⚽️🎙 (@alex_crook) July 16, 2025
Rushworth, who enjoyed a standout campaign on loan at Swansea City last season, is expected to be loaned out again by Brighton, who currently have Bart Verbruggen and Jason Steele competing for the number one shirt. Despite returning to the Amex, he remains behind both in the pecking order, and a further season of Championship football is viewed as ideal for his development.
Coventry’s interest is long-standing, and with the club keen to strengthen between the posts, they now appear to be in pole position. Last season, Ben Wilson and Brad Collins shared duties in goal, but Lampard is said to be targeting a clear first-choice option for the 2025/26 campaign. Oliver Dovin remains out with a long-term injury, which only adds to the urgency.
Rushworth has already proven his worth in the second tier, not just with Swansea but also during an earlier loan spell at Hull City. Calm under pressure, confident with the ball at his feet, and boasting excellent distribution, he fits the mould of keeper Lampard is thought to prefer.
This would not be a move with an eye to the future alone. Coventry are serious about promotion this season, and Rushworth’s arrival would signal their intent to address last season’s shortcomings and go one better than their ninth-place finish.
Writer’s View
Carl Rushworth would be a statement addition for Coventry City. With his proven Championship pedigree and Brighton’s willingness to loan, this is exactly the kind of ambitious, short-term move the club should be pursuing.
Lampard knows he needs a reliable, modern goalkeeper to build from the back, and Rushworth ticks every box. If Coventry can get this one done, it will be a clear sign they’re aiming high in 2025/26.
