Man United set for Evan Ferguson summer bid, as Mbappe praises Ireland striker

United have sent scouts to AMEX Stadium, to watch the young striker play on a few occasions this season.

A few days back, Evan Ferguson was pillaging his first senior goal for the Republic of Ireland. Ahead of a Euro 2024 qualifier against France, he has been praised by Kylian Mbappé The Brighton striker scored in Ireland's 3-2 friendly victory over Latvia and will be pressing to start in Monday's encounter against the World Cup finalists, at Aviva Stadium. Ahead of the game, France captain Kylian Mbappé was asked about Evan Ferguson. He replied:

"We saw some clips about him. Of course he is an important striker for the Ireland team but we hope tomorrow we do our job. But he is a good player."

As if that was not enough, it has been reported - by Football Insider and on the BBC - that Manchester United are lining up a summer move for the former Bohemians forward.

Manchester United 'interested in Evan Ferguson'

Evan Ferguson has seven goals and three assists in 16 games [10 starts] for Brighton & Hove Albion, this season. Graham Potter was the first manager to give Ferguson senior team outings but new Brighton boss Roberto di Zebri has taken a shine to his footballing potential and a string of appearances have followed. Ferguson made his third appearance for Ireland in the win over Latvia but scored a goal in what was his first start. Stephen Kenny spoke highly of him, after the game, but may opt to keep him on the bench for the France game. The teenager's stock is undoubtedly rising, however. He has found himself linked to Tottenham and Chelsea, in recent weeks, but this is the first solid reporting of a strong Manchester United interest. Football Insider states:

'United have sent scouts to watch Ferguson as they prepare to try and lure him away from the AMEX at the end of the season. The Seagulls are preparing for major interest in the 18-year-old in the upcoming transfer window.'

While United are also said to be considering to go all-in on either Victor Osimhen or Harry Kane - with a swap deal proposal to sweeten any deal with Spurs - it is likely that Anthony Martial will be moved on and Wout Weghorst will not stay on past his loan spell. Marcus Rashford is having the best scoring season of his life but is at his best on the left side of an attacking trio. Mason Greenwood may never play for the club again, after his suspension from playing duties in early 2022. Erik ten Hag does have a preference for a target man, leading the attacking line. Evan Ferguson did sign a four-year professional contract with Brighton, last October, so will not come cheap if Man United or any other club want him in for next season. Related links.

• Stephen Kenny could be without Seamus Coleman against France
• Expectation soars as Evan Ferguson captures Irish footballing imagination
• Ireland vs Latvia: Player ratings as Evan Ferguson scores in 3-2 win
• Three players who shone for Ireland in another unconvincing performance
• Antoine Griezmann ‘hurt’ after Kylian Mbappé awarded France captaincy

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