Manchester United and Arsenal have reportedly been handed a boost in the race to sign Brighton & Hove Albion forward Evan Ferguson.
The Irishman has been regarded as one of world football's top prospects ever since he made the switch to the Amex Stadium in January 2021.
By the 2022-23 campaign, Ferguson - who only turned 18 years of age in October of that season - was a regular starter for the Seagulls in the Premier League.
Six goals and two assists from 19 appearances were netted during that campaign, and Ferguson now has 17 strikes and five assists from his 73 outings in a Brighton shirt.
However, the 20-year-old's stock has dropped to a certain degree over the past 18 months, with the frontman having not been helped by injuries.
© Imago
Has Ferguson made a decision on his future?
Since the arrival of Fabian Hurzeler in the summer, Ferguson has accumulated just 101 minutes of top-flight football across six league outings.
Danny Welbeck has justified his position down the centre of the attack by producing some of the best form of his career, yet it appears that it may lead to Ferguson taking a stance over his future.
According to Football Insider, the former Bohemians starlet is ready to leave Brighton during the January transfer window.
Ferguson is said to be unhappy with the amount of football under Hurzeler, his only Premier League start lasting 60 minutes against Newcastle United last month.
With Ferguson possessing a contract until 2029, Brighton remain in a strong position with regards to his future, yet admirers may begin to circle for the player's signature.
© Imago
Who would be the best fit?
When debating just United and Arsenal, there is an argument that both clubs are in desperate need of a forward like Ferguson, someone who holds all the attributes to be a success as a modern-day number nine.
United would likely have to find a solution for Joshua Zirkzee if they were to consider a January bid, aware that Brighton are realistically unlikely to consider anything below a bare minimum of £40m.
Arsenal may also need to cash in on fringe players if they are to consider a bid for Ferguson, although Mikel Arteta may deem it necessary to bring a different dimension to an attack that is lacking a player of Ferguson's qualities.
Other clubs in the Premier League and across Europe may also contemplate an approach if Ferguson comes onto the market.
Darren Plant
