Brighton forward Evan Ferguson has expressed an interest in leaving the Amex on loan during the January transfer window.

Middlesbrough are believed to be one of seven teams keen on snapping up the Irish international and, when asked whether leaving the Seagulls on a temporary basis next month is possible, Ferguson replied:

“I think it (a loan) would benefit anyone, it’s just whether the timing is right. Maybe, I’ll have to chat with the club and see what they want to do. That’s what loans are there for, to go out and get experience. If it’s the right thing for me at this moment, then we’ll have a look at it.”

Signing a striker appears to be top of Boro boss Michael Carrick’s agenda, going by recent reports. Ferguson is not the only player to be linked with a move to the Riverside Stadium in recent weeks, with Sunderland’s Ross Stewart and Coventry’s Viktor Gyokerers also mentioned as options.

In terms of Ferguson, his willingness to leave Brighton does mean he is probably the easiest of the three to sign but, as we have already said, there is a lot of competition for the 18-year-old. Sheffield United, Bristol City, Wigan, Preston North End, Birmingham City and Millwall are also expected to join the battle for the player’s services in January.