United on red alert as long-term target “wants to leave” PL club in January – report

Manchester United’s long-term striker target Evan Ferguson is looking to exit Brighton and Hove Albion in this January transfer window.

The 20 year old Irish striker burst onto the scene in the 2022-2023 season, scoring ten goals in the Premier League as a teenager.

His fine form caught the eye of numerous Premier League clubs including United, who he supported growing up in Drogheda.

The Red Devils have had an interest in the player since 2023 and reportedly tried to sign him on loan in January this year, but this was knocked back by Brighton.

The Ireland international was also reportedly on the club’s list for last summer but they decided to sign Joshua Zirkzee instead.

United could be about to receive a significant boost in the pursuit of their long term target however as Football Insider report that “Evan Ferguson wants to leave Brighton in the January transfer window.”

He is said to be unhappy with his lack of playing time under Fabian Hurzeler, as he has had to make do with a support role behind former United striker Danny Welbeck.

“Ferguson wants to leave Brighton in January in order to play regular first-XI football once again.”

The youngster “has set his sights on joining another top-flight club in the new year”, which will be music to the ears of his numerous suitors.

Ferguson has only played in eight matches this season, scoring a solitary goal against Wolverhampton Wanderers last month.

While there is no doubt that the youngster has massive potential, perhaps a move to United would not guarantee him the first team starting berth he craves.

With 21 year old Rasmus Hojlund very much in the first team squad and the breathtaking 16 year old Chido Obi-Martin waiting in the wings, perhaps it is a more experienced presence the Red Devils require up front.

Featured image Charles McQuillan via Getty Images

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