There’s a young striker who’s been setting the English Premier League (EPL) on fire this season. It’s 18-year-old prodigy Evan Ferguson.

He moved to Brighton & Hove Albion in 2021 and scored six goals in 19 league games last season. Ferguson’s potential was recognized last season. And he’s blossomed this season. His hat-trick against Newcastle in the fourth round drew international attention. That’s four goals already this season. He’s currently tied for third in the EPL scoring charts.

With Ferguson on the rise, Brighton have reemerged in a stronger form. Their 3-1 win over Bournemouth in Round 6 moved them to third place in the league with a 5-1 record. The Seagulls are poised to make a big splash this season. 

Ferguson, who has become the Seagulls’ go-to striker, has been touted as the next big thing in world soccer, and many teams have already made him a target.

Manchester United recognized the potential of Ferguson and actively pursued him in the summer transfer window. The Red Devils, desperate for a frontline striker, offered £50 million ($81.9 billion) for Ferguson. However, Ferguson rejected the offer, and United signed Rasmus Højlund instead.

As for why Ferguson rejected United’s offer, the UK’s Mirror explained.

“United made a bid for Ferguson last summer, with a £50 million price tag. But Ferguson rejected the offer. Ferguson was happy to reject the offer. He was very happy.” 스포츠토토

“Ferguson was happy with his decision to stay at Braintree. At just 18 years old, Ferguson felt that staying at Brighton would further his career.”

United is a big club in the EPL with a lot of pressure, starting with the competition for starting spots. It can be overwhelming for a teenager. For Ferguson, it’s all about growth, which is why he decided to stay at Brighton, where he’ll be able to grow more than at United, where the pressure is even greater.