Roberto De Zerbi Offers Evan Ferguson an Escape Route Amidst Leeds United Interest
As the January transfer window enters its final stages, Leeds United is scrambling to bolster their attacking options. With Joe Gelhardt’s departure to Hull City and Patrick Bamford’s injury woes, Daniel Farke’s side is in dire need of a reliable striker. One player who has been linked with a move to Elland Road is Evan Ferguson, the talented Irish striker from Brighton. However, it appears that Ferguson has been offered an escape route by Roberto De Zerbi, which could scupper Leeds’ plans.
Ferguson’s Struggles for Game Time at Brighton
Since the appointment of De Zerbi at Brighton, Ferguson has found himself struggling to get game time. The arrival of Georginio Rutter from Leeds has further limited Ferguson’s opportunities, and it’s clear that he needs a move to reignite his career. Leeds United had been loosely linked with Ferguson, but any hopes of signing him seem to have been dashed by De Zerbi’s intervention.
De Zerbi’s Escape Plan for Ferguson
According to Alan Nixon of The Sun, De Zerbi wants to sign Ferguson and is offering him the chance to join Marseille on loan until the end of the season. This move would reunite Ferguson with De Zerbi, who is keen to work with the Irish striker again. Marseille’s interest in Ferguson is likely to tempt him, especially considering the prospect of playing in Ligue 1 under De Zerbi’s guidance.
Ferguson’s Attractiveness to Leeds United
Don Goodman had previously stated that Ferguson would be the “perfect fit” for Leeds United. With his pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability, Ferguson would undoubtedly be an asset to Farke’s side. However, it appears that Leeds’ interest in Ferguson has cooled, and they will need to look elsewhere for a striker.
Leeds United’s Striker Shortage
Leeds United’s striker shortage is a pressing concern, and Farke will need to act quickly to address the issue. With Bamford’s injury woes and Gelhardt’s departure, Leeds are left with limited options up front. The club has been linked with several strikers, including Mergim Berisha and Kelechi Iheanacho, but it remains to be seen whether they can secure a top target before the transfer deadline.
Conclusion
Evan Ferguson’s potential move to Marseille has thrown a spanner in the works for Leeds United. With De Zerbi’s escape plan on the table, it’s likely that Ferguson will opt for a move to Ligue 1 rather than the Championship. Leeds United will need to look elsewhere for a striker, and Farke will be hoping to secure a top target before the transfer deadline.