Evan Ferguson appears set for a January departure from Brighton, with the Premier League club reportedly open to sanctioning a loan deal for the Republic of Ireland striker.

New Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler is mindful of Ferguson’s limited game-time and is keen to ensure the young forward’s development is not hindered by a lack of first-team opportunities.

The 20-year-old has only started once in the Premier League this season, scoring one goal, alongside six substitute appearances. Hurzeler is reportedly open to allowing Ferguson a short-term move in January to gain more consistent playing time, according to reports from England.

Ferguson has slipped down the pecking order at Brighton, with Danny Welbeck, Georginio Rutter, and João Pedro forming the attacking trio that started in last weekend’s victory over Bournemouth. The trio impressed, with Rutter commenting after the match: “For the first goal, we like to play this way, and we practise it a lot in training. It worked well, and we enjoyed it.”

As the January transfer window approaches, a number of clubs are reportedly interested in securing Ferguson’s services on loan. Fulham, Leicester City, West Ham United, and Championship side Burnley have all expressed interest, with Newcastle United also recently linked to the young striker.

Newcastle, currently 10th in the Premier League table, have struggled in front of goal, managing only 13 goals in 12 matches this season. Similarly, Leicester have scored just 15 goals and are seeking attacking reinforcements, while West Ham's German striker Niclas Füllkrug has struggled to adapt since his arrival.

Brighton, however, are adamant that Ferguson is not for sale. The Seagulls may reassess a potential loan departure if any injuries occur among their current first-choice attacking trio before January. For now, the club remains committed to ensuring Ferguson’s long-term development.