Newcastle United are interested in signing Brighton starlet Evan Ferguson during the summer transfer window, according to a new report.
What’s the latest on Newcastle’s interest in Ferguson?
As per 90min, the Magpies are among a number of top clubs keen on securing the signature of the highly-rated 18-year-old.
The report suggests that interested parties include Bayern Munich, Napoli and Barcelona as well as Premier League heavyweights Chelsea, Newcastle United and Liverpool and Manchester United.
Ferguson would fit PIF’s transfer strategy described by George Caulkin and Chris Waugh in The Athletic as luring the best up-and-coming talent, who are 24 or under and can grow with the club.
Despite the huge amount of interest, however, the piece claims that Ferguson isn’t in a hurry to leave Brighton and is very happy at the club.
It is also believed he is in line for a new, much improved, contract at the Amex Stadium.
Why do Newcastle want Ferguson?
The Republic of Ireland striker has enjoyed a breakthrough season as Brighton and Hove Albion this season, earning a call-up to his national side and scoring on his international debut in a 3-2 win against Latvia last Wednesday.
Many see him as the heir to former Ireland legend, and record goal scorer, Robbie Keane’s striking throne for the national team and this week Keane claimed that Ferguson has “got huge potential” and “something special”.
Another Irish great John Aldridge has said the 6 foot 2 marksman “could be an Irish version of Harry Kane.”
He added: “He reminds me of Kane in so many ways and that is a big compliment. I really like what I’ve seen from him at Brighton. His movement off the ball is so good for a kid of his age and his finishing is top class.”