Manchester United reportedly regret passing on the chance to sign Brighton striker Evan Ferguson earlier in his career. The 18-year-old has impressed this season, scoring 10 goals and providing four assists in all competitions. His form has caught the attention of United, who are said to be in the market for a top-quality number nine this summer. However, the club had the opportunity to sign Ferguson as a youth player but failed to do so, leading United academy director Nick Cox to label him a “£50m-plus mistake”.
Brighton are reportedly confident that Ferguson could become a £100m player if he continues on his current trajectory. His coach, Roberto De Zerbi, has also expressed confidence that the young striker will become one of the Premier League’s best players, with comparisons being made to Tottenham’s Harry Kane.
Ferguson has attracted the interest of several Premier League clubs throughout his young career, including Liverpool and Everton. However, he chose to remain at Brighton, believing that it offered a clear pathway to the first team. United and Tottenham are said to be interested in signing him in the future, but his current contract with Brighton runs until 2028.
Ferguson’s potential has not gone unnoticed by Manchester City either, who have reportedly considered him as a potential replacement for Erling Haaland if he were to move on from the club.
It is clear that Ferguson is a player with immense potential, and it is understandable why United would regret not signing him when they had the chance. However, it is also important to note that young players often develop at different rates, and Ferguson may not have become the same player if he had joined United earlier in his career.
Regardless, United’s interest in Ferguson is a sign that they are looking to build for the future and develop young talent at the club. It will be interesting to see how Ferguson’s career develops in the coming years and whether he lives up to the expectations that have been set for him.
