Newcastle United have had their eye on Brighton striker Evan Ferguson ahead of the summer transfer window, but will now have to look elsewhere.
That is because it has been announced that Ferguson has signed a new contract with Brighton.
The Newcastle target has put pen to paper on a new deal at the Amex Stadium, extending his stay until 2028. It is a long-term deal for the striker, who has become a man in demand after enjoying a breakthrough season with the Seagulls.
Plenty of clubs have been taking a look at Ferguson, one of which was Newcastle. It was claimed that Toon scouts had been watching the 18-year-old forward, as they look for reinforcements ahead of next season.
Evan Ferguson would have been ideal for Newcastle
Ferguson certainly fits the bill, as he is exactly what the Magpies are looking for. It has been claimed that Eddie Howe wants a striker that is similar in style to Chris Wood – someone who can be a focal point.
The Republic of Ireland teenager can be just that, while he has the potential to grow into one of the best strikers around. He has the profile of a Newcastle signing, but Dan Ashworth is going to have to wait a while before making a fresh move.
New contract ensures he continues Brighton journey
It has been a sensational season for Ferguson, who has been described as ‘amazing‘ by teammate and World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister. He has been given his big break by Roberto De Zerbi, boasting eight senior goals and three asissts in his debut campaign.
The sky is the limit for Ferguson, which is why so many clubs want to prise him away from Brighton. Newcastle were in the mix, but will have to look elsewhere.
Regardless, it would have been an expensive deal. Ferguson has a huge amount of potential, which means Newcastle would have had to break the bank for him.
That would not have been massively ideal for Ashworth, who has been brought to Tyneside to sign players like Ferguson before they burst onto the scene.
He will be more focussed on signing the next Even Ferguson, rather than dwelling on missing out on the real thing.