Evan Ferguson: Man United on red alert as Brighton make long-term target available for January loan | OneFootball

Brighton and Hove Albion striker and long-term Manchester United target Evan Ferguson will reportedly be allowed to seal a loan move in January.

United have been linked to Ferguson over the past few years but needless to say, a transfer has never materialised.

He enjoyed a rapid rise into first-team football, quickly becoming one of Brighton’s most promising players. He had two fantastic seasons but picked up a ligament injury last year, which prevented him from nailing down a consistent run of performances and matches.

Ferguson successfully managed to play while dealing with the issue but he was eventually forced to undergo an operation in April.

Fabian Hürzeler’s arrival – following Roberto De Zerbi’s departure in the summer – marked the beginning of Ferguson’s fall from grace at the Amex Stadium.

Hürzeler has proven to be a hit at Brighton, with the club currently in fifth position in the Premier League table.

The 31-year-old manager has so far demonstrated a clear preference for the likes of Danny Welbeck, Georginio Rutter and João Pedro to lead the line – a state of affairs that has limited Ferguson to just one league start so far this term.

In total, Ferguson has been afforded a measly 105 minutes of top-flight action and has found the back of the net once.

A previous report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that the Republic of Ireland international is keen to part ways with Brighton in search of regular playing time.

The Telegraph now reveal that Ferguson will be available on loan during the winter transfer window – music to the ears of United and any other interested parties.

It’s understood that he is “desperate” to play matches and revive his career.

“Brighton and Hove Albion striker Evan Ferguson is available on loan this January, with the very promising Republic of Ireland international currently unable to get game time under new manager Fabian Hürzeler.”

“As things stand, Brighton’s form has been so good that it has been difficult for Ferguson to change Hürzeler’s mind. He is valued by Brighton at around £60 million and would interest any number of clubs on loan. Leicester City, Fulham, West Ham United and Newcastle United have all struggled for goals this season. Ferguson signed a six-year deal with Brighton in November last year and is likely to stay on loan in the Premier League rather than drop down to the Championship.”

“Ideally, Brighton do not want to sell Ferguson, one of the best young talents in the Premier League. Injuries have slowed his progression this year but he had already shown enough as a teenager to prick the interest of clubs through the division.”

United’s difficulties in front of goal this season have been well-documented, with Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund struggling to impress.

Both stars were overlooked by Ruben Amorim when he named his maiden starting XI to face Ipswich Town on Sunday at Portman Road. Amorim gave the nod to Marcus Rashford to lead the line. Rashford bagged United’s only goal in the 1-1 draw.

It was claimed that United will be limited to loan signings in January, amidst the pressures brought about by the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules. Ferguson represents a shrewd market opportunity for Amorim’s side, especially if the deal comes with an option to buy.

United should certainly be all over such a transfer if there’s a chance of getting it over the line.