Bristol City face stiff competition from Sheff Utd, Birmingham and Ipswich for Brighton striker

Bristol City are amongst eight clubs interested in signing Brighton & Hove Albion teenage striker Evan Ferguson. Ferguson is contracted to the Seagulls until the summer of 2026 but could leave temporarily in January.

The 18-year-old made his senior debut for the Republic of Ireland earlier this week which has ramped up interest. Ferguson came on as a substitute against Norway and has been on international duty with Mark Sykes.

The Daily Mail says that there is interest from seven Championship clubs, as well as one from League One. It could make for a transfer tug-of-war with the window opening 42 days.

The Robins, along with Sheffield United, Millwall, Birmingham City, Preston North End and Wigan Athletic are all keeping progress on the forward. Ipswich Town, currently second in League One, are also said to be keeping tabs.

Ferguson came through the academy of League of Ireland outfit Bohemians, but was signed by Brighton in 2021. The Sussex side beat off competition from Liverpool to secure his signature.

At Brighton, he has made five senior appearances. He scored his first goal for the club in a Carabao Cup win against Forest Green Rovers earlier this season.

Ferguson has played regularly for Brighton’s Under-21’s and this season scored five goals in six Premier League Two matches, including a hat-trick against Leicester City.

Last month, Brighton gave him a new five-year contract which will keep him at the AMEX Stadium until the summer of 2026. He has yet to play in the Premier League this season, but has been an unused substitute twice.

Bristol City have several striking options with Tommy Conway scoring nine goals in 24 matches this season. Nahki Wells is behind him on seven, whilst last season’s top scorer Andi Weimann has five and World Cup hopeful Antoine Semenyo four.

Other striking options include Chris Martin, who has a reduced role with the side. Sam Bell, who has been in-and-out of the team is another option Nigel Pearson has been able to call upon.