Rico Henry in action against West Bromwich Albion (Getty Images)
According to The Sun, Brighton & Hove Albion are plotting a move for 23-year-old Brentford star Rico Henry ahead of the new campaign.
The report suggests that Graham Potter is keen on a left-back who can also operate as wing-back and Henry is one of the Seagulls’ targets. However, they will face competition to secure the Englishman’s services as Leeds and Aston Villa are also interested.
Born in England, Henry came through the ranks of Walsall and made 57 appearances for the club’s senior setup before joining Brentford in August 2016. He endured a torrid first two seasons at Griffin Park as he struggled with a shoulder injury and a knee injury.
However, he came back stronger and featured in all of the league games last season and established himself as a key figure in the squad. He helped the Bees reach the Championship playoff finals, which they eventually lost to rivals Fulham.
At the moment, Potter has only one left-back at his disposal. Bernardo hasn’t been at his best and managed to play in just 14 league games last season. Gaetan Bong also left the club last January and no replacements were brought in.
As a result, the manager turned towards centre-back Dan Burn to look after the left-back duties but that didn’t help much in their cause. Thus, signing a left-sided defender is a must in the summer for the Seagulls.
In that regard, Henry would be a solid addition to the squad. He has been in impressive form and has shown potential with Brentford. He has done well at both ends of the pitch for the Bees and should only get better with experience. He can be a crucial player for Brighton if he is able to replicate the same form.
His inclusion would definitely bring in healthy competition to the squad, whilst also providing some much-needed depth. Henry’s numbers in terms of goal contribution may not be among the best but he is capable of doing better in the future.
With limited options at the back, it is clear that Brighton are in dire need of a new left-back. And Henry, who was a star in the Championship last season, can provide Potter’s side with quality and depth. He is one of the best left-backs in the Championship and would be a fine addition for the Seagulls.
