Evan Ferguson signs new long-term Brighton contract

Brighton manager Roberto de Zerbi said he wants to help Evan Ferguson become one of the strongest strikers in Europe.

The Republic of Ireland striker has signed a new contract to keep him with the Premier League club until the summer of 2028.

Ferguson has scored eight goals in all competitions for Brighton this season.

The 18-year-old also scored his first senior goal for Ireland in a friendly against Latvia in the Aviva Stadium last month.

The former Bohemians player scored his first Premier League goal for Brighton against Arsenal last December. He has since become a key member of the side.

Manchester United had been linked with a move for Ferguson before the new contract.

De Zerbi said: "Evan’s contract extension is great news. He trains and plays like a senior player with many years of experience and has become an important member of the squad.

"The aim is to help him become one of the strongest strikers in Europe."