AliousBrighton manager Fabian Hurzeler may have set the stage for Evan Ferguson’s permanent move to West Ham with a revealing public statement.
West Ham addressed their long-standing need for a striker by securing Ferguson on transfer deadline day. However, the 20-year-old Irish forward is currently only a temporary solution, having arrived from Brighton on a ‘dry loan’—a straight loan deal with no option to buy.
Many West Ham supporters were frustrated by the club’s lack of activity in the transfer window, with Ferguson being their only signing. The absence of a buy option in the deal also disappointed fans, as they feared it could lead to a short-lived stay for the talented young striker. Critics have slammed West Ham’s ownership for a perceived lack of ambition.
A source close to the club revealed that both West Ham and Brighton initially sought a more permanent arrangement for Ferguson’s move. However, while West Ham preferred to include an option to buy, Brighton insisted on either a full transfer or a loan with an obligation to purchase. Ultimately, the clubs settled on a compromise—a straight loan for the remainder of the season.
Despite this, West Ham fans remained optimistic that a permanent deal could still be arranged if Ferguson performed well under Graham Potter’s management in East London. However, new reports suggest that such hopes may be dashed.
### Brighton’s Valuation of Ferguson a Major Obstacle
A source with knowledge of the negotiations has warned that the likelihood of Ferguson staying at West Ham permanently is slim. Brighton chairman Tony Bloom reportedly demands an astronomical fee, with the club having valued the striker at over £100 million just a year ago.
Even so, West Ham’s ability to land Ferguson on loan was a significant achievement, given the widespread interest in him from other clubs. However, Brighton would not have risked sending such a valuable player out on loan unless they believed his future at the Amex Stadium was uncertain—particularly given his struggles with injuries.
Now, Hurzeler’s latest transfer decision appears to have solidified the likelihood of Ferguson’s departure.
### Brighton’s Signing of Stefanos Tzimas Clears Path for Ferguson’s Exit
Shortly after loaning out Ferguson, Brighton announced the signing of highly rated Greek striker Stefanos Tzimas from 1. FC Nürnberg. The 19-year-old, a longtime target for West Ham, was acquired for £20 million plus add-ons and will officially join the Seagulls in the summer.
Ferguson had reportedly grown frustrated at Brighton after dropping to third—sometimes even fourth—choice in the pecking order under Hurzeler. The arrival of another promising young forward in Tzimas further pushes Ferguson down the list, making a long-term return to Brighton increasingly unlikely.
At first glance, this development seems to boost West Ham’s chances of securing Ferguson permanently. However, Brighton is known for its strategic approach to transfers, often acquiring players with a mix of immediate impact and long-term potential.
### Hurzeler Confirms Tzimas as His Striker for the Future
The biggest indication that Ferguson’s Brighton career may be over came from Hurzeler himself. The German coach made it clear that he sees Tzimas as a key player for the team’s future.
Speaking to *Sky Sports News*, Hurzeler expressed his excitement about the Greek forward’s arrival:
*”I think Brighton is the right club for every player who wants to improve. I’m very happy we could sign a quality player like Stefanos, who is still very young, but I have watched him play for Nürnberg many times.*
*”I know how tough the league is, especially for a young player, but he has already shown he has big quality. Hopefully, he finishes the season well at Nürnberg, and we are really looking forward to working with him because I believe he can be a big player for us.”*
With these comments, Hurzeler has effectively confirmed that Ferguson’s future at Brighton is bleak. If the Irish striker wishes to stay at the Amex, he would have to accept a role as the fourth or even fifth-choice forward.
Brighton had already signaled their willingness to sell Ferguson in January, and Hurzeler’s latest remarks reinforce that stance. Should the striker impress at West Ham, the club’s owners will have little excuse not to pursue a permanent deal—assuming Bloom is willing to set a realistic asking price.
Ferguson’s West Ham loan spell is set to begin this weekend, with the young forward expected to make his debut against Brentford. His performances over the next few months could determine whether the Hammers make a serious push to secure him on a long-term basis.
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