Ferguson wanted by his perfect club as Man Utd and Chelsea learn prospects of landing Brighton teen
Robin Bairner
- Updated: 6 Sept 2023 08:56 BST
- 4 min read
Evan Ferguson’s explosive performance for Brighton against Newcastle saw him bag a spectacular hat-trick, bringing the future of the 18-year-old striker into focus early in the season.
The teenager has fielded praise from many top critics following his exploits, while speculation over his next steps are already being discussed.
According to The I, Manchester City are already teeing up a move for Ferguson, with manager Pep Guardiola of the belief that his squad would be future-proofed should Erling Haaland decide to leave the club when his contract expires in 2027.
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Since arrive at City, Haaland is said to view the club as a stepping stone to a traditional giant like Real Madrid, and there is a genuine fear that he could depart. Ferguson, then, is being targeted as his heir.
But where is the best location for the youngster to continue his career?
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Who should Evan Ferguson sign for?
According to data analytics experts SciSports, Manchester City would be a very good option for him, but not quite the best.
Guardiola’s side rank second in terms of his best options, getting a club fit score of 77.
Newcastle, meanwhile, are seen as his best option by SciSports, with the St James’ Park side getting a scored of 79. Eddie Howe’s men can offer Ferguson more playing time and in a playing style that better suits him, the data experts’ show.
West Ham are the other strong contenders from the Premier League, with David Moyes’ side similarly offering strong playing time for the teen. However, Ferguson’s development would not be as strong with the Hammers, with Manchester City gaining five stars in that particular category.
Ferguson's Best 5 Destinations
| Rank | Club | Club fit score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Newcastle | 79 |
| 2 | Man City | 77 |
| 3 | Atalanta | 76 |
| 4= | Real Madrid | 75 |
| 4= | West Ham | 75 |
| 22= | Man Utd | 67 |
| 22= | Chelsea | 67 |
| 42= | Tottenham | 65 |
| 42= | Arsenal | 65 |
In terms of continental options, Atalanta, who just sold Rasmus Hojlund to Manchester United, are his best option. Ferguson would find the Serie A club’s formation particularly to his liking.
Intriguingly, Real Madrid are also in the top five destinations for Ferguson, with the Spanish club another to get five stars in terms of his potential development, even if they do not suit him in terms of style or formation.
Manchester United have been strongly linked with a move for Ferguson before, but rate only joint 22th in terms of the best options for the Irishman. According to SciSports, they are a worse option for him to be at than Brighton.
Similarly, Chelsea, who would surely see the player as perfect for their project, are level with Man Utd. Both are far better played than Tottenham and Arsenal, who are placed joint 42nd with a string of teams.
Ferguson’s future remains open at this stage, but according to the experts, at least, he will be heading straight to the top, with Manchester City and Real Madrid among the best-placed sides to secure a future transfer.
