Brighton reveal Evan Ferguson to Chelsea dilemma as Mauricio Pochettino lines up next transfer

Brighton owner Tony Bloom has revealed there is a possibility that the Seagulls may not conduct any business with Chelsea 'over the next two or three years', which comes as a major blow in the race to sign Evan Ferguson.

The 18-year-old striker, who sees his contract at the Amex Stadium expire in 2028, has been heavily linked with a big move from the south coast after becoming the sixth-youngest player to ever score a hat-trick in the Premier League. Ferguson has featured four times for Brighton in the English top-flight this term, netting four goals.

The Ireland international's impressive performances have reportedly courted the interest of some top clubs across Europe and, with Mauricio Pochettino in the market for a homegrown talisman, Chelsea have been mooted as a potential destination.

However, according to Bloom, Brighton may not entertain any dealings with the west Londoners in the next couple of years. Since Todd Boehly has taken the helm at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea have poached various staff and players – yet the Seagulls have still enjoyed far more success on the pitch.

«It’s possible over the next two or three years that we have no dealings with Chelsea,» the Brighton owner told The Athletic. «So, for me, it’s not personal at all and each individual deal I’ve got to do what’s best for the football club first and foremost.

»If other clubs are interested in our head coaches, staff, players, I much prefer it that way than no one’s looking at any of our players or staff. So, we’re doing something very right.

«We do everything we can to keep our best players, but we know in the way of the world that won’t always be the case,» Bloom added. Then, on Ferguson, the 53-year-old said: «I’m extremely excited about Evan