Manchester United dealt Evan Ferguson setback and other transfer rumours

Brighton are confident about tying Manchester United-linked striker Evan Ferguson down to a new contract - according to reports - amid widespread interest in the teenager.

Having allowed Cristiano Ronaldo to move on under controversial circumstances mid-season, United want to sign England captain Harry Kane as his replacement when the market reopens in the summer. However, manager Erik ten Hag could make further additions in attacking quarters.

In order to part-finance their proposed swoop for Kane or another prolific frontman, United are willing to sell Anthony Martial and other players. Wout Weghorst is, also, due to return to Burnley when his loan agreement ends which could prompt Ten Hag to snap-up more than one goalscoring option.

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Ferguson, 18, has earned rave reviews for his performances with Brighton this campaign. He has netted eight goals for the Seagulls in all competitions, and he has now been capped three times by the Republic of Ireland following the March international break.

Tottenham are viewed to be competitors for his signature. However, any would-be suitors have been dealt a set-back with reports from Mail Online suggesting Brighton are "confident" about getting Ferguson to commit his long-term future to them.

Elsewhere, reports from Football Insider state that a "domino effect" could see United target France defender Benjamin Pavard this summer window on the proviso Bayern Munich sign Jeremie Frimpong instead. Frimpong has been heavily linked with United himself over the last few months.

However, with the German heavyweights lurking, there is a possible scenario in which Frimpong replaces that man Pavard and he then pitches up at Old Trafford