Premier League teenager ready to snub Manchester United and Chelsea

The Republic of Ireland face a difficult task when they get their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign underway on Monday evening.

Stephen Kenny’s side will welcome World Cup runners-up France to Dublin for their Group B opener, with the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann likely to keep the Irish defence busy at The Aviva Stadium.

Ireland do have a number of their own stars, though, including teenage sensation Evan Ferguson.

The Brighton and Hove Albion star has been enjoying a fine breakthrough season on the south coast, and reports suggest he is now ready to snub a huge move.

As per The Sun, the 18-year-old is prepared to snub potential offers from huge clubs including Manchester United and Chelsea, as he believes that staying with The Seagulls will be better for his development.

Ferguson made his Brighton debut last season, but has become a regular for Roberto De Zerbi’s side this term.

The teenager has made 16 appearances across all competitions so far this term, scoring seven goals.

Ferguson scored on his full international debut last week

As well as Chelsea and United, Tottenham Hotspur are also said to have shown an interest in the Irishman, who marked his full international debut with his first senior goal for Ireland during a 3-2 win over Latvia last Wednesday.

The Red Devils will reportedly have scouts in attendance to watch Ferguson against Les Bleus on Monday, but the player himself is wary of agreeing a big move as it may limit his first team opportunities.

Ferguson is currently contracted to Brighton until 2026, which puts the south coast side under very little pressure to sell.

Manchester United are said to have made signing a new striker a priority when the transfer window reopens this summer, and manager Erik ten Hag will have the opportunity to watch Ferguson in action when his side face Brighton in the FA Cup semi-finals at the start of May.