Fulham are reportedly interested in signing Brighton & Hove Albion striker Evan Ferguson on a loan deal.
The forward has been linked with a move away from the South Coast, having struggled to gain regular game time for Fabian Hurzeler.
The Republic of Ireland international has had to settle for just two starts in 11 Premier League appearances this season.
Fulham have emerged as one of Ferguson's potential suitors alongside East Midlands rivals Leicester City and Nottingham Forest.
However, Brighton CEO Paul Barber has played down the suggestion that Ferguson could depart in the new year, insisting that he remains "a really important part of the squad".
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Fulham eyeing Ferguson loan deal
While Hurzeler has also played down rumours that Ferguson could leave the club, Fulham are still seemingly keen to test Brighton's resolve when the transfer window opens in January.
According to the The Independent, Fulham are 'investigating a deal' to bring Ferguson to Craven Cottage in the new year.
The report claims that Fulham will look to strike a deal with Brighton to sign Ferguson on a loan deal until the end of the season.
The Cottagers believe that a loan could benefit both clubs, as it would bolster Fulham's striker options and allow Ferguson to continue his development by playing regular football.
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Why are Fulham targeting a new striker?
Fulham manager Marco Silva can currently call upon Raul Jimenez, Rodrigo Muniz and Carlos Vinicius as his main forward options.
Jimenez has established himself as the first-choice striker this season, netting five goals in his 16 Premier League appearances.
Muniz has chipped in with a couple of goals, including an effort in the recent 2-2 draw against Liverpool, while Vinicius is yet to make his first appearance of the season, having spent time on the sidelines with an injury issue.
Although Silva seems to have enough options in the number nine position, there is uncertainty surrounding Vinicius's future with the club after he was linked with a move away in the summer.
Silva may also view Ferguson as someone who has the potential to offer more than Jimenez and Muniz, with the Fulham boss looking to bolster his squad with extra quality as his side attempt to mount a European push.
