
Manchester United aren’t expected to sign Wout Weghorst on a permanent deal this summer, as he’s been short of goals since joining on loan from Burnley in January.
However, there may be a cheaper replacement than Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen available – Evan Ferguson.
The 18-year-old, who grew up a United supporter, is enjoying a fantastic breakthrough season at Brighton & Hove Albion and could be a good long-term successor for Weghorst. United fans have called for his signing on social media after seeing his exploits.
Ferguson (41.6% aerial duels won) and Weghorst (45.4% aerial duels won) are both dominant in the air, but the former has scored considerably more goals this season (seven goals and three assists from 16 games) than the latter (two goals and two assists from 18 games).
The teenager, who has scored one goal in three games for the Ireland national team, has thrived with more playing time under Roberto De Zerbi, but Brighton are expecting approaches this summer.
Ferguson has a €10 million (£8.8m) market value, so he wouldn’t break the bank, but it’s worth remembering that the centre-forward is still at the beginning of his career.
If United tried to sign him as reports suggest, they’re not acquiring the finished article yet. Ferguson has impressed in very few games this season, but he still has a lot of developing to do.
He is similar to Weghorst, bringing teammates into the attack and having hold-up abilities on the ball, but he wouldn’t walk into United’s starting XI next season.
Stats from Transfermarkt and WhoScored
