Kylian Mbappe has heaped praise on Evan Ferguson amid rumours linking the Brighton star with a move to Manchester United.
Ferguson, 18, has been excellent for the Seagulls since breaking into the side. He has scored seven goals and provided three assists in 16 appearances for Brighton this term.
That is a remarkable record for the teenager, who has completed just one full game during his time in the senior set- up at the Amex Stadium. Ferguson joined the Seagulls as a 16-year-old from Bohemians in January 2021 as they beat Liverpool to his signature and he is one of Europe's hottest talents right now.
It is understood Man Utd have sent scouts to watch Ferguson in action against France and have been tracking the progress of the Brighton ace this season. Erik ten Hag could be looking to strengthen his attacking options in the summer and he may prefer a younger option, with Ferguson a prime candidate.
Ferguson is currently on international duty with Republic of Ireland, who take on France in their opening Euro 2024 qualifier at the Aviva Stadium on Monday. Ahead of the game, Les Bleus captain Mbappe singled out Ferguson as a player he and his country have watched closely in recent months.
Mbappe said in his pre-match press conference: "We watched some of his plays, he's a very good striker. We'll be very wary of him and, hopefully, we won't see him much."
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Ireland recorded a 3-2 win over Latvia in a friendly last week thanks to goals from Callum O'Dowda, Chiedozie Ogbene and Ferguson. It was a much-needed victory for Stephen Kenny's side as they prepare to face France.
"They're a team who play with three at the back," Mbappe added. "We tend to think that they are a combative team. We'll need to be careful, but also attack-minded and aggressive."
Meanwhile, Didier Deschamps also highlighted the threat Ferguson could bring. He said: "There is a new Ireland generation now with new players. Ferguson poses a threat, a good player. Johnston as well has joined the team. It is a mix of young and experienced players.
"Ireland are known for being direct and vertical in how they play but from what I’ve seen in recent games they are capable of playing the ball along the ground as well. Of course, they have a new coach who arrived in 2020 as well."
As for France, they got their Euro 2024 qualification campaign off to a flyer as they beat an illness-depleted Netherlands side 4-0 in Paris. Antoine Griezmann gave Deschamps' men the lead, before Dayot Upamecano doubled their advantage. Mbappe scored twice late on to earn a vital three points.
