Key arrival at Manchester United and Chelsea fears lead to renewed interest and potential €60m swoop for Evan Ferguson
Manchester United are ready to test Brighton’s resolve this summer by making a €60m bid for Ireland striker Evan Ferguson.
Old Trafford boss Erik ten Hag is not done on his transfer window spending and, despite bringing in Netherlands forward Joshua , he is eager to add one more attacking option to his squad.
The recent arrival at Old Trafford of Dan Ashworth as United’s new Sporting Director has helped push Ferguson back up the pecking order.
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Ashworth held that same role at Brighton when they swooped for the Meathman from League of Ireland side Bohemians three years ago.
He is aware of Chelsea’s interest in the 19-year-old and is eager to beat the Stamford Bridge side to the punch.
Ferguson has already proved his Premier League credentials and has scored 12 goals so far in the top-flight.
His 2023/24 campaign was cut short by injury and he missed Brighton’s pre-season tour of Japan, but he returned recently to training.
United have already brought in Zirkee from Bologna for €35m, but recognise that he will need time to get up to the pace of the Premier League.
Ten Hag’s attacking options took a hit during the club’s pre-season tour to the USA when Danish striker Rasmus Hojland suffered a hamstring injury.
He has been ruled out for at least the first month of the new campaign.
Ferguson has been linked with several top English clubs, as well as some continental giants, with Serie A side Roma among his admirers.
With Ashworth pulling the transfer strings at United now, and with new part-owner Jim Radcliffe also a fan, a move for Ferguson is set to materialise in the coming weeks.The 12-time capped Ireland international, a lifelong fan of the Red Devils, is contracted at Brighton until the summer of 2029, so he won’t be signed on the cheap.
However, United insiders are confident that they can strike a deal to bring the Irish teenager to Old Trafford.