Scottish giants hot favourites to sign Evan Ferguson

This could save his future international prospects.

But injuries and a loss of form have plagued him since.

The 20-year-old was hoping for a career revival at West Ham this season, joining the Hammers in January on loan. He instead endured a nightmare stint where he struggled for game time and failed to score for the club.

Ireland manager, Heimir Hallgrimsson, has continued to back the Seagulls number nine as Ferguson repaid the faith with a crucial goal against Bulgaria in March.

Ferguson was again included in Hallgrimsson's Ireland squad for the June international friendlies. However, the Ireland manager did acknowledge in the lead up that Ferguson needs to find a home at club level, to keep making the squad.

Hallgrimsson said: "There will come a point when we cannot select players when they’re not playing. But it’s always about the individual, what positions, what depth we have in that position.

"We can’t say, ‘If he’s not playing, we cannot pick him’ and then we need to pick someone. That’s why it’s important to have him here and see him, talk to him, etc.

"We can see in our sessions his qualities, especially in finishing — second to none. When given a chance, he’s been good even though he’s not playing on a regular basis."

He added: “We all know that once he starts playing on a regular basis, he will deliver even more for us.”

The Brighton attacker's hopes of doing so certainly seem high amid interest from many clubs.

Scottish giants, Celtic, are currently the favourites for Ferguson's signature.

The Meath native continues to be linked with Premier League sides Everton and Leeds. Newcastle, Bournemouth, Chelsea and Manchester United have also eyed up Ferguson with the Blues and the Red Devils long-term admirers.

A move abroad is also on the cards, with 2024 Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen potentially in the running if Ferguson wants a fully fresh start.