Manchester United might have to accept transfer reality with Brighton star Evan Ferguson

Few Premier League players have developed as quickly as the way Brighton & Hove Albion striker Evan Ferguson has over the last 12 months.

The Republic of Ireland international, who celebrated his 19th birthday last month, has gone from being on the periphery of Brighton's first-team squad to being one of the Premier League's hottest prospects in next to no time. His sharp rise has resulted in him being strongly linked with some of England's biggest hitters, including Manchester United.

But in a bid to dampen down those rumours, at least for the time being, Brighton convinced the youngster to put pen to paper on a new long-term contract last week. He is now under contract until 2029.

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Though Brighton, who are often the masters of discovering hidden talent, adding Ferguson to their academy from Bohemians in 2021, have tied the forward down to a long-term deal, speculation about his future is going nowhere. He is one of the Premier League's most exciting talents, and the division's elite are already believed to be circling.

According to reports in the national media, United are among them, with one report claiming the Reds are 'undeterred' by the fact he has just signed a new deal on the south coast. Chelsea have also been credited with interest in his services.

Scoring 11 goals in his first 31 Premier League appearances is an impressive record for a teenager to say the least. Five of those 11 goals have been struck this season, including his hat-trick against Newcastle United in September.

With that said, it is easy to understand why so many of the country's elite are