Brighton striker Evan Ferguson has agreed to a new long-term contract at the Amex Stadium to secure his immediate future at the club.
The Republic of Ireland international, 18, has been on the radar of Premier League rivals after breaking into Roberto De Zerbi’s team in the second half of the season and scoring seven goals, making him one of the most sought-after teenagers across Europe.
Ferguson had three years left on his existing deal but the terms of an extension have been agreed to reward his progress in the last months. He is expected to stay at Brighton next season where he will compete for a first-team place and continue his rapid development.
After arriving from Irish club Bohemians two years ago, Ferguson was quickly talked about as a potential first-team player following his performances in the Under-23s. Graham Potter used him as a sub three times last season but under De Zerbi he has started 11 games since January.
He qualifies for England through one of his parents but has played for Ireland, making his debut earlier this season and winning four caps while also scoring his first senior international goal in the win over Latvia in March.
Ferguson would have been expected to play in the FA Cup semi-final against Manchester United at the weekend but suffered an ankle injury during the win over Chelsea the previous week. While the injury was not considered serious, he was not available for the penalty-shootout defeat, but there are hopes that he will return before the end of the season.
Clubs have been looking at Ferguson as No9s have been difficult to recruit for the top teams in recent seasons. United themselves have been in the market for a striker, while Ferguson’s goal threat meant scouts for most of the Champions League clubs have been watching him.
His first long-term professional deal was agreed in October when he turned 18, which took him to 2026. At the time, De Zerbi said he could see Ferguson’s quality after just a short time working with him. He became the club’s youngest Premier League player when he made his debut in the competition.