Leeds United are keen to sign on-loan West Ham misfit Evan Ferguson for next season.
The Brighton & Hove Albion striker, who joined the Hammers in January, has been deemed surplus to requirements at the London Stadium.
Much was made of the young Irish forward reuniting with former Brighton boss Graham Potter, but things haven’t worked out as planned. Despite pushing hard for the deal, Potter has since opted not to play Ferguson regularly — or even keep him beyond the end of the season.
As Claret & Hugh reported last month, West Ham have already decided not to pursue a permanent deal for the 20-year-old this summer. However, this stance has not been made public by the club who maintain the striker still has a chance to stay in East London.
Earlier today, when speaking to a transfer insider regarding Leeds’ interest in Tomáš Souček, the conversation quickly shifted to Ferguson.
“The manager [Potter] has already decided he doesn’t want him next season. Ferguson is good in the build-up play, but he’s third choice at West Ham,” the source said.
“Leeds are planning for next season — Daniel Farke has already started preparations for the summer window. He likes Souček, but there’s already a Premier League offer in for him. I think Leeds like Ferguson too, and he’d get games there.”
Leeds and Burnley have built up a five-point lead over Sheffield United, who have recently endured a mini-collapse after topping the Championship table. It appears Leeds are wasting no time in preparing for life back in the Premier League — and Ferguson could be part of their plans.
Ferguson has lost his mojo and Westham likely arn’t selling Soucek for less than 25 million to what might be a relegation fight rival .
Nothing will happen until promotion and Leeds keeps transfers under wraps.
How on earth is an interest in Ferguson a ‘raid’ on West Ham?