Man Utd admit they've made '£50m mistake' over Brighton striker Evan Ferguson

Manchester United reportedly feel they made a mistake not signing Brighton striker Evan Ferguson when they had the chance.

Ferguson has enjoyed a breakout season under Roberto De Zerbi, registering 10 goals and four assists in all competitions this season.

And the 18-year-old's prolific form has alerted him to the attention of Manchester United, who are in the market for an elite number nine this summer.

However, frustratingly for Erik ten Hag, the Red Devils almost secured him as a youth player, which could have saved them hundreds of millions in the transfer window.

United academy director Nick Cox labelled the teenager a "£50m-plus mistake", after the club failed to tie him down to a deal, according to Sky Sports.

Indeed, the report states that "Brighton believe if Ferguson continues his trajectory he can turn into a £100m player".

Meanwhile, De Zerbi told Sky Sports he has no doubt Ferguson "will become one of the best players and strikers in the Premier League", with comparisons having already been drawn with Tottenham striker Harry Kane.

Ferguson to Man Utd?

Ferguson has been attracting attention from across the Premier League since a very young age, previously trialling with Liverpool, Manchester United and Everton.

However, the Republic of Ireland international allegedly felt his development would be best served at Brighton "where the pathway to the first team was obvious."

More recently, United and Tottenham have earmarked the striker as a potential addition, claim Sky Sports.

Although it is thought that both clubs will not start their pursuit until the summer of 2024, with the forward's current contract at the Amex not due to expire until 2028.

While Ferguson has also been touted as a potential replacement for Erling Haaland at Manchester City, should the Norwegian choose to move onto pastures new in the near future.