Stoke City are eyeing a move for Brighton’s rising star Charlie Tasker in what could be a key defensive addition this summer.
The 19-year-old right-back is attracting serious loan interest, with the Potters and West Bromwich Albion both keen on a deal, according to SportsBoom.
Stoke Looking to Bolster Right-Back Options
Tasker is one of Brighton and Hove Albion’s most promising young defenders, having recently signed a new contract with the club he first joined as an eight-year-old. Standing at 6ft 1in, the teenager has impressed throughout his time in the Seagulls’ academy and made the step up to first-team contention during the second half of last season.
Now, with senior minutes looking unlikely behind Tariq Lamptey and Joel Veltman, Brighton are open to loan approaches. Stoke City have emerged as one of the front-runners to secure Tasker’s signature on a temporary deal, hoping to offer regular Championship football to aid his development.
Tasker joined the Seagulls’ senior pre-season camp in Spain and caught the eye of newly appointed head coach Fabian Hürzeler. However, with Lamptey making 20 appearances and Veltman featuring 24 times last season, the path to Premier League minutes remains congested.
At 33, Veltman is nearing the latter stages of his career, and Brighton appear to view Tasker as a long-term successor. But in the short term, a move to the bet365 Stadium could offer the best of both worlds—competitive football for the player and valuable depth for Steven Schumacher.
Bright Future and First-Team Ambitions
Shannon Ruth, Brighton’s Under-21s head coach, recently spoke about Tasker’s development, stating:
“We’re really proud of what Charlie has achieved since he joined us at the age of eight. He made really good progress last season in the under-21s and deserved to make the step-up to first-team squad involvement. He really enjoyed being around that environment and we’re delighted he’s signed a new contract.”
His performances with the U21s and exposure to the senior set-up last term underline why clubs like Stoke and West Brom are keen. For City, the addition of a technically sound, athletic right-back with Premier League pedigree would complement Schumacher’s tactical approach and provide healthy competition in wide defensive areas.
Writer’s View
This would be a smart piece of business by Stoke. Tasker has the profile of a modern full-back—tall, composed, and developed in a Premier League environment. With competition for places at Brighton fierce, now is the ideal time for the Potters to swoop.
The move would not only benefit Tasker but could prove a key upgrade on the right flank as Schumacher reshapes the squad. Whether it’s a season-long loan or something more ambitious down the line, this is a transfer worth watching closely.
