Manchester United handed huge blow in transfer pursuit of Evan Ferguson

Manchester United's hopes of signing Brighton and Hove Albion striker Evan Ferguson have been handed a huge blow after the 19-year-old agreed a new contract extension.

MEN Sport understands the Reds have been keeping a watchful eye on Ferguson's progression after he burst onto the scene last season. Roberto De Zerbi has been cautious with the teenager's playing time so far this campaign but even then the Republic of Ireland international has still impressed.

In 14 appearances, the forward has scored five goals including an impressive hat-trick in the Seagulls' victory over Newcastle. A report from ESPN in September suggested United had made an approach for Ferguson in the summer but their bid was 'laughed off'.

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Now it seems their task of signing the forward has got even trickier now he is committed to the South Coast club until 2029. Discussing the new contract, De Zerbi said: "Evan deserves this new contract and he has a very big future ahead of him."

Brighton's technical director David Weir added: "Evan is a brilliant young talent and we are delighted for him. He’s shown his ability at club and international level, after breaking into the team at the start of the year, and we are looking forward to working with him and watching his continued progress."

One of Erik ten Hag's transfer priorities is likely to be up front considering the lack of goals scored in the Premier League by his strikers this season. Rasmus Hojlund has enjoyed good form in the Champions League this year but has yet to got off the mark domestically.

Marcus Rashford is the only forward who has managed to score