How Brighton convinced Evan Ferguson to sign for them instead of boyhood club Manchester United

Brighton teenage star Evan Ferguson is one of the hottest talents in the Premier League right now – but the striker could have joined Manchester United instead…

Ferguson joined Brighton from Irish side Bohemians in 2021, amid interest from United – the club he supported growing up.

A move to Old Trafford would be difficult for any young player to turn down, but Brighton has become an extremely attractive destination – as the club’s technical director, former Everton and Rangers defender David Weir, suggests. know.

Tom Hancock began freelancing for FourFourTwo in April 2019 and has also written for The Analyst and When Saturday Comes, among others. He supports Wycombe Wanderers and is sympathetic to Wealdstone. A self-proclaimed static person, he is known to watch football with a spreadsheet (or several) open… FIND OUT MORE

On the bustling streets of Brighton, a story of ambition, talent and football prowess is being written. At the heart of this story is Kaoru Mitoma, the Japanese winger who lit up the Premier League with his flair and skill.

Mitoma’s journey to the Brighton first team was one full of perseverance and dedication. After two seasons playing with partner club Union Saint-Gilloise, the 26-year-old player has found his rhythm in the 2022/23 season. With seven goals and five assists, he played a key role in Roberto De Zerbi’s masterful tactics that helped the Seagulls secure a coveted Europa League spot. His international prowess was also demonstrated when he made four notable appearances as a substitute for Japan at World Cup 2022. The 26-year-old was promoted to the Seagulls’ first team in 2022/23 season, highlighting his meteoric rise.

The 2023/24 campaign has seen Mitoma maintain his electric form. A goal and three assists before the international break in September is testament to his continued influence on the pitch. Brighton, recognizing his invaluable contribution, will reward him with an improved contract. As 90min reported, discussions over Mitoma’s new contract began after the January transfer window. It appears that negotiations are progressing positively towards a successful agreement. With his current contract with Brighton set to expire in 2025, the lure of the AMEX Stadium and the promise of a project under De Zerbi could well see him extend his stay.
Mitoma’s abilities did not go unnoticed. Football giants such as Liverpool, Manchester City, Barcelona and Napoli have paid admiring glances to him. However, Brighton remains optimistic.

The Brighton scouting network deserves praise. From Alexis Mac Allister and Moises Caicedo to Ben White and Leandro Trossard, the club has a knack for spotting and nurturing talent. While some have made significant profits, Seagulls continue to soar.

The recent 3-1 win over Newcastle, highlighted by a hat-trick from Evan Ferguson and the resurgence of local talent Solly March under De Zerbi, underlined Brighton’s depth and potential. In short

Kaoru Mitoma’s story at Brighton is testament to the club’s vision, ambition and commitment to excellence. As the Seagulls overcome the challenges of the Premier League, the Japanese winger’s journey will certainly be one worth watching closely.