Tariq Lamptey is one of several players Arsenal are looking at as a future replacement for Hector Bellerin, football.london understands.
Bellerin has been linked with a return to Barcelona for several years and was convinced to stay by manager Mikel Arteta last summer.
Portuguese defender Cedric Soares has stepped up this season and particularly impressed in recent games, whilst also filling in at left-back.
The former Southampton defender is trusted by Arteta but a departure for Bellerin this summer would mean the Gunners bringing in a replacement for the Spaniard.
Brighton defender Lamptey, as first reported by Mirror Football in December, has been earmarked as a potential successor to Bellerin and Arsenal have tracked the youngster's progress in the Premier League this season.
The 20-year-old is one of the brightest up and coming players in his position, catching the eye after breaking into the Brighton first team last season following his move from Chelsea in the winter.
Lamptey has since penned a new deal with the Seagulls acting quickly after seeing just how much potential he has, and under contract until 2025 at the Amex Stadium, it could take a large fee to prise him away.
According to Albion Analytics, he leads the ranks at Brighton, as of December 1, for crosses into the penalty box (seven), interceptions (11), and fouls won (22).
He was also first for shot-creating actions (22), goal-creating actions (four), and 17/32 dribbles completed (the highest for attempts and completions), report Sussex Live.
The former Chelsea youth player is likely to receive further interest from Premier League teams this summer.
