AliousSunderland’s hopes of landing Brighton & Hove Albion striker Evan Ferguson this January appear to have taken a major hit, as mounting Premier League interest threatens to put the talented Republic of Ireland international out of reach.
Earlier this week, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that the 20-year-old forward is “expected to leave Brighton on loan in the next days,” with multiple clubs vying for his signature. Sunderland, long-standing admirers of Ferguson, are believed to still be actively seeking attacking reinforcements ahead of Monday’s transfer deadline. However, the growing consensus suggests Ferguson is more likely to secure a temporary move to a Premier League club if Brighton decides to let him leave.
West Ham United has reportedly emerged as the frontrunner in the race for Ferguson. According to the *Daily Mail*, Hammers boss Graham Potter, who previously worked with Ferguson during his time at Brighton, is keen to bring the striker to London. The move is seen as a response to injury woes affecting Michail Antonio, Niklas Fullkrug, and Jarrod Bowen, who has often been deployed in a central attacking role.
West Ham isn’t alone in the pursuit, though. Other top-flight clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur, Bournemouth, Fulham, and Everton, have also been linked to Ferguson, while the player is said to be attracting interest from German sides as well. Sunderland faces stiff competition in what has become a heated race for the young striker.
Ferguson’s limited opportunities this season have fueled speculation about a potential loan move. The 20-year-old has managed just 220 minutes of Premier League football so far, and reports as early as December hinted that Brighton could sanction a temporary departure. At the time, Sunderland was named alongside Leeds United and Celtic as potential destinations for the striker.
Despite the rumors, Brighton’s leadership has publicly played down the possibility of Ferguson leaving. In early January, Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler dismissed the reports, stating, “I am happy he is here with the team. Of course, he is a young player and needs game time, but I don’t know where this information about his exit comes from.” Similarly, Brighton CEO Paul Barber told *talkSPORT* that Ferguson remains an integral part of the squad. “Evan’s very happy, and we’re very happy with him. He’s an important part of the team, and we expect him to stay throughout the season,” Barber remarked.
Ferguson’s rising stock isn’t new; the striker was linked to clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United last year, with Brighton reportedly slapping a staggering £100 million valuation on him to ward off interest. While Sunderland fans remain hopeful, it appears Ferguson’s future lies at a higher level, with the Black Cats likely to look elsewhere for attacking reinforcements.
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