New contender emerges in race to sign Evan Ferguson

"It’s more about what is best for the player."

In the battle to secure a loan deal for Evan Ferguson, the question seems to be 'who isn't in the race' rather than 'who is', with another contender among the ranks.

West Ham had recently emerged as the favourite to sign the 20-year-old Meath man, even before boss Julen Lopetegui had been replaced by Graham Potter.

When asked about the potential signing of Brighton's Ferguson, Potter said: “He’s a player, that’s not a West Ham player, and until he’s a West Ham player I won’t speak about anybody.

“We’ve got enough good players here and they’re my focus at the moment.”

It has now emerged that Everton - who recently replaced Sean Dyche with former boss David Moyes - are interested in the Ireland striker's signature.

Moyes was also linked with Ferguson when in charge of West Ham.

With the injured forward only handed two starts this season in the Premier League, it is important for his development that he gets a move that will afford him more game time.

And like the Hammers, the Toffees - lying 16th in the Premier League - will need all the help they can get for the remainder of the season.

In a recent interview, Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler stated that a move away for Ferguson could benefit the Seagulls in the long run.

Hurzeler said: "He came from the youth academy and that’s the way of the club. We will negotiate what is important for him, what is important for his development, where he can improve the best and then we will make the decision together.

"This decision should be what is best for the player and for the club… We know that the Premier League is a very good league to improve, because it’s tough, it’s intense, especially for young players. It’s the perfect environment to adapt.

"In the end, they want to play for Brighton and we want them to play for Brighton. So, when they improve in the environment of the league where we are also playing, it’s always very helpful. So, that’s why I am not thinking about making the other teams better, it’s more about what is best for the player."