Arsenal join transfer race to sign Brighton star Evan Ferguson amid Man Utd interest

Arsenal have joined Manchester United in the race to sign Brighton wonderkid Evan Ferguson, it has been reported.

The Republic of Ireland international, 18, has made huge strides under Seagulls boss Roberto De Zerbi since being called up to the first team last season.

He scored 10 goals in 25 appearances in all competitions last term, including a brace against Southampton in May, and opened his account for this season with a smart finish against Luton on the opening weekend of the Premier League season.

Standing at 6ft 2in and possesses pace, power and superb aerial ability, Ferguson stood out for his goalscoring numbers in Brighton's youth teams - and has received significant praise from De Zerbi.

Speaking after the 18-year-old's brace against the Saints, which secured European football for this season, the Italian said: "Ferguson's improvement has been incredible. He's playing like an old player but he is only 18.

"There is a good dressing room with the mentality to help all our younger players."

According to Sky Sports News reporter Melissa Reddy, Brighton believe a future sale of Ferguson could break the British transfer record fee, set by Chelsea's £115 million deal for Moises Caicedo from the Seagulls last week.

Now, it is being claimed that Arsenal are among the clubs trying to sign him.

Arsenal 'want to sign Evan Ferguson from Brighton'

According to ..., Arsenal are preparing to negotiate with Brighton next summer for Ferguson as their major marquee signing.

The forward area is perhaps the most necessary for the Gunners to improve, even though Gabriel Jesus, Eddie Nketiah and Folarin Balogun are among their striking options.

However, Jesus is currently injured, while Balogun could be on his way out of the Emirates Stadium this summer. Kai Havertz can play as a forward, but featured as a midfielder during Arsenal's 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest last weekend.

According to Football Transfers, the Gunners are plotting a £100 million move to sign the Irish forward, described as a 'sensation' by The Athletic, although Manchester United and Tottenham are among the other clubs interested.

If Ferguson is sold for that figure, he would narrowly miss out on becoming Arsenal's record signing. That was set by the £105 million deal to bring Declan Rice to the Emirates Stadium from West Ham in July.