Arsenal’s pursuit of Brighton striker Evan Ferguson has been complicated by the young forward’s injury struggles, casting doubt over a potential January transfer.
While the 20-year-old remains an attractive option for Arsenal’s injury-hit attack, his current fitness issues leave Mikel Arteta with a decision to make as the January window progresses.
Arsenal’s interest in Evan Ferguson appears to have hit a significant obstacle, with the 20-year-old Brighton striker sidelined due to an ankle injury.
Fabian Hurzeler, Brighton’s manager, confirmed that Ferguson faces “some more weeks” out of action, raising questions about the feasibility of any January move for the Irish international.
The injury compounds a challenging season for Ferguson, who has struggled for consistent minutes, making just two Premier League starts so far.
Despite his limited game time, Ferguson remains a player of considerable potential.
His physicality, aerial ability, and composure in front of goal make him an attractive option for Mikel Arteta, who is looking to strengthen Arsenal’s attacking options following injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus.
However, the striker’s fitness issues and lack of recent match sharpness could make him a risky midseason acquisition to hang any Premier League title hopes on.
Former Liverpool midfielder Didi Hamann weighed in on Ferguson’s future, suggesting that a move to a club where he is guaranteed regular football is essential for his development. As reported by the Irish Daily Star, Hamann said: “Evan Ferguson had an injury which kept him out for a long time which certainly didn’t help but he’s a hugely talented player and he’s got to be playing games now.
“I think he’s at a stage now that coming on for 10 or 15 minutes is simply not enough. I think there are a lot of teams, including German teams, who will probably look at him as a potential signing.
“He has been linked with a loan to Liverpool but would he definitely play? I think Arsenal are lacking a player like Ferguson but sitting on the bench would do him no good. He needs to join a team in which he is certain to play.”
Arsenal’s pursuit of Ferguson comes in the context of their broader efforts to strengthen both immediate and long-term squad depth.
Alongside Ferguson, Arsenal are reportedly monitoring Evan Mooney, the 17-year-old St Mirren forward. Mooney has caught the eye with his performances in the Scottish Premiership, including a goal and an assist in recent outings. While Newcastle United are also vying for Mooney’s signature, Arsenal’s track record of nurturing young talent could make them an appealing destination for the teenager.
Manager Mikel Arteta has said Arsenal are actively looking for a forward in this window. Speaking after Arsenal’s win over Spurs, the manager said, “We are losing two very creative, very important, very unpredictable players for us, so that has an impact in the team, that is for sure.
“So that is what we have said, but not for now, it is from the start of the window and before the window [we start planning]. We are actively looking at what we can do to plan and to improve the squad and impact the squad if we can. Obviously, the news of Gabby, if confirmed, takes the scenario to another dimension as well, because the time frame will be longer.”
However, with Ferguson’s immediate availability in doubt, Arsenal may need to reassess their transfer priorities or consider alternative options as the January window unfolds.
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