Brighton have vowed to turn Evan Ferguson into ‘one of the strongest strikers in Europe’.
They believe the sky's the limit for Ireland’s teenage sensation after arming him with a bumper new contract to fend off Manchester United.
But Ferguson is unlikely to be risked in tomorrow’s Premier League clash away to Nottingham Forest, as he continues to nurse an ankle issue.
Read next: Evan Ferguson injury update as Brighton boss makes vow after FA Cup semi-final defeat
Ferguson has agreed a new long-term deal with the Seagulls, running until the summer of 2028.
And he has landed a significant pay rise as a result, having only signed his first professional contract - on his 18th birthday, and until 2026 - in October.
Brighton were eager to offer improved terms as Ferguson is wanted by a host of leading clubs, most notably Manchester United and Tottenham.
Brighton confirmed the deal this evening and Roberto De Zerbi hailed the development ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Forest.
The Italian said: “It’s very important news. Evan plays like a senior player with many years of experience and has become an important member of the squad.
“The aim is to help him become one of the strongest strikers in Europe.”
De Zerbi continued: “He can improve a lot with us. Playing in Brighton, there are the right conditions for young players.
“He’s still 18. It's good news. I think he’s playing very well.”
Ferguson is one of the most in-demand youngsters in European football and clubs will continue to circle even though he’s staying put for now.
The new contract merely protects his employers - and benefits Ferguson, who could triple his wages - but it won’t fend off the suitors in the long term.
Manchester United were heavily linked with the Meath man and De Zerbi feels Brighton could have beaten the Red Devils in Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final with a fit Ferguson.
He missed the Wembley clash with an ankle injury and cut a frustrated spectator as United progressed to the final - against derby rivals Manchester City - on penalties.
De Zerbi said today: “With Manchester United, it was bad for us without him. He has different qualities, and can give us different solutions in the last 20, 30 metres.”
Even though eighth-placed Brighton are pushing for a European finish this season, Ferguson is unlikely to be risked against Forest.
De Zerbi wants the 18-year-old firing for the run-in and won’t gamble until Ferguson has fully recovered from the injury shipped against Chelsea.
“I don't want to take any risks with him. We have another nine games. Maybe he can be important for the last eight if there is some risk,” said the manager.
The fact De Zerbi can offer Ferguson regular Premier League football is the key reason why he has extended his contract.
The lure of playing for a famous club like Manchester United is hard to shake, but it would be harder to nail down a regular spot in the team at this age.
Ferguson knows as much and the former Bohemians youngster is thriving at the Amex Stadium having already been entrusted with so much responsibility.
He has paid back that faith in him with eight goals in all competitions and that form allowed him cement his standing in Stephen Kenny’s Ireland team.
Ferguson - who made his debut in November - scored his first senior international goal in last month’s friendly win over Latvia and started against France days later.
Barring any injury setbacks, he will feature in the June’s Euro 2024 qualifiers away to Greece and home to Gibraltar.
Fellow Irishman Andrew Moran - who is also highly regarded by the Seagulls - signed a new Brighton deal on Monday, running until 2027.
READ NEXT:
Padraig Harrington chasing more major title glory after rediscovering his mental edge
Shamrock Rovers to offer Jack Byrne new contract after fending off MLS interest
Paddy 'The Baddy' Pimblett on Conor McGregor v Michael Chandler
- James Lowe out of Leinster's Heineken Cup semi-final clash with Toulouse
Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts
