Sources: Brighton set to open Evan Ferguson talks as Tottenham swoop
Brighton are set to offer striker sensation Evan Ferguson a new contract amid interest from Premier League giants, sources have told Football Insider.
This site revealed on Monday (27 March) that Tottenham have joined Chelsea and Man United in the race to sign the 18-year-old this summer.
But sources with knowledge of the situation have revealed that Brighton are confident of keeping the Republic of Ireland international at the Amex Stadium.
It is believed that Ferguson is happy on the south coast as the Seagulls step up his first-team involvement to aid his development.
The starlet has more than three years left to run on his current deal but Brighton are set to reward his progress with a bumper new contract and will open talks soon on an extension.
According to FBRef, Ferguson earns £3,000-a-week on his current terms sheet.
He marked his first senior international start for the Republic of Ireland with his first goal in the 3-2 win over Latvia last week (22 March).
That is the latest milestone in his breakout season - during which he has netted seven goals in 20 Brighton appearances.
Ferguson is fighting experienced striker Danny Welbeck for a starting berth in Roberto De Zerbi's side.
The Seagulls are fighting for a first-ever European qualification this season.
Brighton are level on points with sixth-place Liverpool with a game in hand on the Reds – and are just seven points adrift of a Champions League place.
Ferguson and the south coast club return to action against European rivals Brentford on Saturday (1 April).