Manchester United have ‘laid down groundwork’ in a bid to sign Brighton forward Evan Ferguson next summer.
United are understood to have ‘earmarked’ Ferguson as a transfer target for the 2024 summer transfer window, following the forward’s exciting emergence at the Amex Stadium this season.
The 18-year-old has scored 10 goals in all competitions for the Seagulls and his performances have not gone unnoticed elsewhere in the division, with both Manchester City and Tottenham considering the Irishman as a long-term target.
Manchester United previously missed the chance to sign Ferguson after a trial at Old Trafford, but Sky Sports are reporting the Red Devils are keen to address that ‘mistake’.
Erik ten Hag is keen to sign a centre-forward this summer and the club are pursuing a deal for Tottenham’s Harry Kane, but Ferguson is viewed as a player who could lead the line for the long-term future.
Ferguson signed a new contract at Brighton last month and is expected to remain on the south coast next season, but the growing interest in his services mean 2024 offers are anticipated.
Tottenham and Manchester City each view Ferguson as a potential successor to Harry Kane and Erling Haaland respectively, with the Premier League’s top teams impressed with how the teenager has handled the step up to senior level in seamless fashion.
Ferguson – who had trials at Liverpool, Manchester United, Everton and Celtic before deciding to sign for Brighton on the basis of a clearer path to first-team football – marked his full Ireland debut with a goal against Latvia in March.
