West Ham accelerate Evan Ferguson deal after 'huge' twist - Insider
West Ham are preparing to step up their efforts to land a loan deal for Brighton star Evan Ferguson, according to the club's former scout.
Mick Brown, who worked as a senior scout at the London Stadium until leaving alongside David Moyes and remains very well-connected there, exclusively told Football Insider that Niclas Fullkrug's "huge" injury blow will force the club's hand.
Football Insider exclusively revealed on 22 November that Ferguson wants to leave the Seagulls after growing unhappy with his lack of game time under Fabian Hurzeler.
West Ham's interest initially came as a result of his availability, while Michail Antonio's long-term absence following a car accident added to their desire to sign a new centre-forward.
Fullkrug is now expected to be ruled out for a number of weeks with a hamstring injury, further adding to the club's need to be active this month.
The 20-year-old is thought to be one of the top names on their list of potential recruits, while a loan deal would suit all parties as West Ham await their strikers' returns.
Following the appointment of Graham Potter, the Hammers are keen to step up their efforts to land Ferguson ahead of a reunion with his former boss.
West Ham 'desperate' to seal Evan Ferguson deal after huge blow
Brown previously told Football Insider that Brighton will entertain loan offers for Ferguson this month, but could also accept a permanent deal if a "substantial offer" arrives.
Now, the former scout who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, has insisted Potter could play a key role in convincing the Ireland international to make the move.
"I've heard they will try to bring Ferguson in," he told Football Insider.
"Potter knows him well having worked with him before at Brighton, he probably knows more about him than almost anybody else.
"They need some threat up front with Antonio and Fullkrug both ruled out with injuries.
"Bowen is injured too and he's a major source of goals, so they'll be desperate to land a player who can offer consistency in front of goal.
"Kudus and Paqueta will chip in, of course, but you can't just rely on them.
"Ferguson fits the mould of what West Ham want as well, he's a physical centre-forward who isn't afraid to get involved - like Antonio and Fullkrug."
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