David Moyes ‘backs himself’ to transform Evan Ferguson’s career at Everton
David Moyes wants Everton to sign Evan Ferguson this summer in an effort the Brighton striker’s form around, sources have told Football Insider.
Everton are on the hunt for a striker this summer with Dominic Calvert-Lewin bound for the exit door at Goodison Park; their long-time number nine set to join a further eight players who are out of contract.
Meanwhile, West Ham have very little interest in signing Ferguson permanently once his loan spell in East London concludes, after Graham Potter left him on the bench until the 86th minute of their draw with Southampton.
Ferguson’s career appears to be in a tailspin of late having failed to hit the heights for both Brighton and West Ham, but sources have told Football Insider that Moyes sees a different path for him at Everton.
Football Insider sources have said that Moyes “really backs himself” to turn Ferguson’s fortunes around, and develop a strong both with the 20-year-old striker to help him rediscover his early-career form.
Evan Ferguson destined for Brighton exit amid Everton links
Moyes’ interest in Ferguson is not new, with Everton one of several clubs keen on the Republic of Ireland international when Brighton made him available to leave on loan towards the end of the winter window.
Although West Ham fans were keen to see Ferguson stay put for good after his debut against Brentford, that sentiment has since soured after just seven appearances, one start and zero Premier League goals.
Sources have told Football Insider that Ferguson is in line to leave Brighton after a “difficult” 18 months, with Everton seen as a “good landing spot” for the striker as they prepare for their new stadium move.
Everton must aim higher with new striker pursuit
Calvert-Lewin’s expected departure from Goodison has drawn attention from clubs such as Newcastle, although Eddie Howe has been urged to U-turn on signing the Everton striker due to his injury record.
The Toffees’ hunt for a new number nine could see them turn to Ipswich star Liam Delap, with former CEO Keith Wyness telling Football Insider Everton would be the better move than Chelsea for his career.
However, after Football Insider revealed that Moyes has identified Ferguson as his first-choice striking target, the out-of-favour Brighton starlet could be on his way to the blue half of Merseyside this summer.