Everton transfer news: Brighton ready to sell Ferguson amid Toffees update
Everton target Evan Ferguson will be allowed to leave Brighton on a permanent transfer before 3 February, according to The Athletic.
The online outlet reported on 28 January that amid interest from the Blues and a host of clubs in England and beyond, Brighton are ready to sell the Republic of Ireland international striker at the right price.
One bid for the 20-year-old has already been rejected by the Seagulls, who will only sanction an exit if the circumstances suit both themselves and Ferguson, who had been expected to make a loan move.
Alongside the Toffees, Marseille, West Ham and Bournemouth are all keen on signing Ferguson, although the identity of the team which has already unsuccessfully bid for the Irishman has not been disclosed.
Everton given Evan Ferguson transfer boost in new striker pursuit
The Toffees’ need for a new striker has been underlined by developments in the last few days, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin forced off just 13 minutes into their 1-0 win at Brighton on Saturday.
With Chelsea loanee Armando Broja also out for up to 12 weeks as his injury struggles at Goodison Park continue, it’s clear that Moyes can’t cope with Beto being his only option to choose from up front.
Sending Broja back to Chelsea – which they’d have to do before the window shuts on 3 February – has been ruled out as an option, meaning the Toffees miss out on freeing up a loan spot to sign Ferguson.
However, with Ferguson now available to buy on a permanent transfer as opposed to a straight loan deal, Evertonians will hope that Dan Friedkin’s takeover makes them able to compete for his signature.
Splashing mountains of cash in this window was quikcly ruled out after the Friedkin Group completed their buyout last month, but with Moyes in need of a striker, Ferguson could be their first headline arrival.
In other Everton news, The Friedkin Group want to hire one of the Premier League’s leading CEOs in a headline appointment.
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