Arsenal ‘still keen on raiding Premier League rivals for star striker’ in shock move – as Mikel Arteta looks to boost forward options ahead of title run-in

Evan Ferguson reportedly remains a target for Arsenal as Mikel Arteta prepares to strengthen his striking options ahead of another title race.

The Brighton centre-forward has been one of the Premier League’s hottest talents after coming through the Seagulls’ youth system following a 2021 move from Irish side Bohemians.

He made his debut for the south coast in the 2021/22 season and scored six goals in 19 Premier League appearances the following season.

He scored the same number in 27 games last season before stuttering for Fabian Hurzeler’s team this season. He found the net just once in fourteen games after being sidelined at the start of the season due to an ankle injury.

Despite his goal against Wolverhampton Wanderers in October being his first goal since November last year, many top teams remain interested in the Irish striker.

Now Arsenal have joined those vying for Ferguson as they look to kick off their activities in January with a raid for their rivals’ top talent. talkSPORT reports.

His goal against Wolverhampton Wanderers in October was his first in eleven months

Mikel Arteta’s men are in second place but still have some work to do to overtake leaders Liverpool

Brighton are still considering whether to listen to offers for the 20-year-old, who has only made two Premier League appearances for the Seagulls this season.

Fulham and West Ham form a trio of English teams interested in the Irishman, while the East London team is inquiring about a possible loan move for him.

Arsenal, who have benefited from Gabriel Jesus’ recent revival, are not planning to spend big in January but are considering a move to number nine under the right circumstances.

The summer could be a busier time for the Gunners, with the likes of Newcastle hotshot Alexander Isak and Red Bull Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko on their watchlist.

Chelsea had shown an interest in the centre-forward at the start of last year, but Nicolas Jackson’s return to form has cemented his place as number one choice at Stamford Bridge.

Brighton, who are mainly focused on getting Ferguson fit again, are likely to insist on an obligation clause if a rival wants to take him on loan.

Danny Welbeck and Joao Pedro have risen above the young talent in the pecking order, while the Seagulls have slipped to 10th in the league after a winless run of seven games.

According to the IndependentPremier League rivals Fulham are exploring the possibility of a loan move for Ferguson until the end of the season.

The Gunners already have Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz as striking options this season

Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler dismissed reports that Ferguson could leave on loan in November

Marco Silva’s side reportedly believe they can offer the forward regular game time and strengthen their forward line.

However, Hurzeler had tried to pour cold water on suggestions that Ferguson could be loaned out in January.

“I don’t know where this information came from because I told Evan I’m happy he’s here with the team,” Hurzeler said last month, following reports of a possible loan termination.

‘I am happy with how he is training, the shape he is in physically and mentally. Of course he is a young player and needs playing time.

‘Accept your role and get yourself into the mood and form that you will be ready for when given the opportunity. It’s exactly what I demand of Evan and also what I told him. I never said anything to him about a loan or anything like that.’