Ferguson attracts interest from across the Premier League (Image: Getty)

Evan Ferguson is ready to turn down Manchester United’s summer interest to continue his development at Brighton.

The Ireland international has emerged as one of the Premier League’s brightest young forwards this season, scoring seven goals in 16 appearances for the Seagulls this season.

The 18-year-old scored in his international debut against Latvia on Thursday and is expected to face France on Monday night, when Stephen Kenny’s side begin their Euro 2024 qualifiers.

According to The Sun, United will have scouts on hand to watch Ferguson in action against the former world champions.

Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur would also be admirers, but the youngster is in no rush to leave Brighton. Ferguson is confident his development will be better served by staying at the club, where he is likely to have more first-team opportunities.

His performances have already caught the attention of former United and Ireland captain Roy Keane, who was asked about Ferguson at a live show at Dublin’s The Overlap on Thursday.

“When such a young player comes, you have to be happy. But you have to give the boy the chance to grow up,” said the former midfielder.

Ferguson scored his first goal for Ireland against Latvia (Image: Getty)

“Playing in the Premier League week after week will take its toll. But when you show up for big games, international games, when you’re only playing in the league, it can be very, very difficult.

“It was a great start for him, I am very happy for him. He seems like a nice boy.”

United have made signing a striker a priority for the summer, with Ferguson appearing to be another option.

Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen are United’s main targets, but both would need United to break their transfer records to bring them to Old Trafford.

Kane will enter the final year of his Spurs contract this summer, but the north London side have told United they still have to pay £100 million to sign the England captain.

Napoli, meanwhile, value Osimhen at €150m and are under no pressure to sell their star striker as the club enjoyed a fantastic season that saw them reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League while maintaining an 18-point lead at the top to go to Series A.