Everton are reportedly set to join the race to sign Brighton and Hove Albion striker Evan Ferguson, who has been hailed as a “special” player. According to Graeme Bailey, the Toffees are interested in securing a loan move for the 18-year-old Irish striker, who has been valued at £60 million.
Ferguson, who has been compared to some of the top strikers in the world, has been struggling to break into Brighton’s first team, and a loan move to Everton could provide him with the opportunity to gain more playing time and experience.
“I think Everton would be an interesting option for Evan Ferguson,” said Bailey. “They play a style of football that would suit him, and I believe they might be in the conversation for his signature. It’ll come down to who can offer him first-team football, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s situation at Everton could play a part in that decision.”
Everton’s interest in Ferguson comes amid speculation surrounding the future of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has been linked with a move away from Goodison Park. Calvert-Lewin’s contract is set to expire in the summer, and if he does not sign a new deal, Everton may be forced to sell him in January.
In addition to Calvert-Lewin’s situation, Everton are also facing uncertainty over the future of Beto, who has been linked with a move to Roma. If both Calvert-Lewin and Beto were to leave Everton in January, the Toffees would be in desperate need of a new striker, making Ferguson an attractive option.
While Ferguson’s stats this season may not be impressive, with only one goal scored, he has been praised for his “special” talent and his ability to hold up the ball and connect play in the final third. However, some have questioned whether he would be a good fit for Everton, given his similar style of play to Calvert-Lewin.
“Ferguson is a talented player, but he’s not exactly what Everton need right now,” said one football analyst. “They need a striker who can score goals consistently, and Ferguson’s record this season doesn’t suggest he’s that player. However, if they can agree a loan-to-buy deal, it could be worth taking a chance on him.”
Everton’s manager Sean Dyche will be keen to strengthen his attacking options in January, and Ferguson could be a viable option. However, Dyche will also need to consider the long-term implications of signing Ferguson, and whether he would be a good fit for the team.
“It’s not just about signing a player for the sake of it,” said Dyche. “We need to make sure that whoever we bring in is the right fit for the team, and that they can help us achieve our goals. We’ll be doing our due diligence on all of our targets, and we’ll make a decision based on what’s best for the club.”
The January transfer window is always a busy time for Premier League clubs, and Everton will be no exception. With several players linked with moves away from the club, and others being touted as potential signings, it promises to be an exciting few weeks for Toffees fans.
As for Ferguson, he will be hoping to make a big impression in the coming weeks, and prove to Everton and other potential suitors that he has what it takes to succeed at the highest level. With his talent and potential, he could be a great addition to the Everton squad, and help the team achieve their goals in the second half of the season.
