Arsenal and Manchester City are both interested in signing Brighton forward Evan Ferguson before the transfer deadline this week, according to reports.
The Republic of Ireland international has been linked with various top Premier League clubs over recent seasons. Despite this, the 19-year-old has yet to secure a major move away from Brighton and scored six goals in 36 appearances across all competitions last season.
With new manager Fabian Hurzeler in charge, Ferguson, who has missed the season’s first two matches due to injury, may face increased competition for a spot in the team following the arrival of Georginio Rutter from Leeds. Additionally, Danny Welbeck and Joao Pedro have already scored this season.
There are also rumors that Brentford might be considering Ferguson as a potential replacement for Ivan Toney if Toney leaves before the deadline.
Earlier this month, Hurzeler expressed confidence in Ferguson’s future, noting, “I’ve heard a lot of positive things about him and observed many positives myself. We aim to help him develop and become a strong Premier League striker.”
“Evan came back after a long injury, so we have to be very careful. Especially with young players who want to be on the pitch or want to be back as quick as possible. We need to settle them down and then do it step-by-step.
“But he has started training with the team and you can already see why he’s here, because he has great abilities and great skills for a striker.
“For me, the most important thing for a young player – and he’s a young player – is his attitude and his character.
“And when I see him working in rehab, on the pitch, beside the pitch, that is impressive. And when we have video meetings, he’s really into it. He tries to focus.
And now Football Transfers claims that Premier League giants Arsenal and Man City are ‘eyeing up a move’ for Ferguson ‘before the end of the transfer window’.
Despite interest from Brentford, both Arsenal and Man City have been ‘following the situation closely and are ready to make an offer to Brighton’.
The report adds:
‘Both clubs have been seeking additional firepower, with the Gunners looking for a natural No.9 to support Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, while Pep Guardiola’s side only have Erling Haaland available in the centre-forward role after they allowed Julian Alvarez to leave.
‘FootballTransfers’ information is that Brighton want around £70 million for the player, but both Arsenal and City would prefer a loan deal at this juncture and then settle on a price next summer.’
