Manchester United were not in action on Tuesday night, but their supporters still had plenty to keep them interested - with Brighton ’s 2-0 win over Bournemouth catching the eye.
Brighton moved to within four points of United with their victory, which came courtesy of goals from Evan Ferguson and Julio Enciso. It was Ferguson’s effort which turned the heads of United supporters, who were quick to begin their wish lists for the summer transfer window when Wout Weghorst's loan deal expires.
Ferguson has enjoyed a meteoric rise at Brighton this season, going from relatively unknown youngster to highly-rated striker in a matter of months. His goal was his eighth of the season for the Seagulls in just 17 appearances across all competitions.
Those numbers are impressive for an 18-year-old – but the goal itself underlined why he’s attracting attention from other clubs. Kaoru Mitoma crossed from the left side of the penalty area – the ball was slightly behind Ferguson, who reacted quickly by nonchalantly flicking it with the inside of his left foot into the bottom corner.
It was a classy finish from the Republic of Ireland international, who already has United fans dreaming of securing his signature this summer. “He’d start for us every week. I need him in the summer,” one excited fan wrote on Twitter.
“Name your price immediately @OfficialBHAFC,” wrote another. “Get this man @ManUtd,” added another. One simply stated: “He’s destined for us.”
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“Evan Ferguson. If SAF was still at Man Utd… that's all I'm gonna say,” tweeted another cryptically.
One fan offered a deeper theory, writing: “As much as Harry Kane guarantees goals and would be a great signing we may be better off paying £30/40m on Evan Ferguson &/or Ivan Toney (who both play higher up the way Ten Hag wants rather than dropping deep) and going all out for [Jude] Bellingham…”
Those supporters are not the only fans of Ferguson – he is also admired by Kylian Mbappe. Last week, Ferguson was on international duty with Ireland, who played World Cup finalists France and ahead of the match Mbappe complimented his play after he scored in the 3-2 win over Latvia.
"We watched some of his plays, he's a very good striker,” Mbappe said. “We'll be very wary of him and, hopefully, we won't see him much."
Brighton are aware of the interest in their young star and are making moves to ward off their rivals. The Sun reports that the Seagulls are ready to hand the striker a new bumper contract.
He only signed his first professional contract in October, which runs until June 2026, but his form is set to be rewarded with another deal. United have been aware of Ferguson for some time, having battled Liverpool and Chelsea to sign him ahead of Brighton when he moved from Irish side Bohemians two years ago.
