Latest developments
- Arsenal want to take Evan Ferguson on loan from Brighton.
- The Gunners will have to offload one loanee to seal the deal.
- Injury to Gabriel Jesus has limited Arsenal's striking options.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2/5): Sun can be outlandish
Arsenal want to push ahead with a loan move for Brighton & Hove Albion striker Evan Ferguson for the rest of the season, but must first move on a current loanee.
That is according to The Sun, whose transfer news can be sensational, yet the Gunners are considered one of a number of clubs interested in the Irishman.
Value (4/5): Just one problem
A loan deal would be a cheap bit of business for the Gunners, who are running out of time to sign one of their main centre-forward targets this month.
They would, however, be forced into a permanent deal for the £33.8 million-valued striker if Neto or Raheem Sterling cannot be moved on, as only two players on loan from fellow Premier League clubs are allowed at one time.
Suitability (3/5): Lost his way
Ferguson has scored just once this season, with his late goal against Wolves in October being the only oasis in a barren campaign which has seen him lose his place in the Seagulls line-up, and many admirers.
If he can rediscover the form he showed in 2023, the 20-year-old can be the target man that the Gunners are seemingly in the market for.
Upgrade? (2.5/5): Will pressure Havertz
Gabriel Jesus' injury leaves Kai Havertz as the only fit striker at the Emirates. It is well known that Havertz is not considered a “proper” centre-forward in many people's eyes, even though his scoring record this season is much healthier than Ferguson's.
Logic (1.5/5): Not a title-winning signing
A world-class central striker is what Arsenal are crying out for, and though Ferguson showed the potential to be one as a teenager, his career has not kicked on.
The Gunners will be better suited to going all out for Dusan Vlahovic or Alexander Isak, while striker-starved West Ham could be more suitable for Ferguson.
Whisper+ verdict: 13/25
Not the sort of signing that will allow Arsenal to challenge Liverpool, and the loan situation hardly makes it worth their time.
