Man Utd suffer transfer blow as Premier League wonderkid turns down record move

Suraj Radia

• 20 Apr 2023 15:40 BST
• 2 min read

Manchester United have suffered a blow to their summer transfer plans after reports that one of their top striker targets is set to reject a move to Old Trafford and extend his contract instead.

Brighton striker Evan Ferguson has been touted as one of Erik ten Hag’s transfer targets this summer, with United desperate to sign a long-term solution to their striker woes.

The 18-year-old has enjoyed a rapid rise to stardom this season, netting eight times in all competitions and scoring his first goal for Ireland last month, having made his senior debut in November.

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Ferguson’s breakout has prompted interest from a host of top Premier League sides including Tottenham, Manchester City and Chelsea but United have been the most aggressive pursuers for the striker and were keeping tabs on him ahead of a summer move.

However, the Independent in Ireland claim that Ferguson has resisted the lure of a record transfer that would have seen him become the most expensive Irish player of all time in order to sign a new contract with Brighton.

Ferguson only penned fresh terms until 2026 six months ago but he is believed to be in advanced talks over another renewal, with clubs aware they would need to make a bid in excess of €40 million to even tempt Brighton into a sale.

United keen to sign Ferguson as long-term striker

Ten Hag’s top priority this summer is a new number nine and Ferguson was one of United’s top targets, given his potential and mature performances in the Premier League.

Ferguson grew up supporting United, while club technical director Darren Fletcher is known to be a fan of the striker and has given glowing recommendations on him.

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The Red Devils are expected to pursue Harry Kane this summer, with Tottenham also considering Ferguson as someone who could replace their talisman if he leaves.

While Ferguson’s decision to renew has halted United’s pursuit of him in the short-term, the teenager is expected to be chased by the club through the summer and beyond, particularly if their search for a striker suffers a further setback as time goes on.