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Although a record-breaking fee for an Irish player, such a figure would not have been an issue for United \u2013 also holding an interest in the striker \u2013 if Sheikh Jassim was at the helm of the club. However, despite a takeover no longer looking on the cards, Spurs have not received a boost in their pursuit of Ferguson regardless.<\/p>\n
The former Bohemians star decided to commit his long-term future to Brighton earlier this year and signed a bumper contract extension at the Amex Stadium. The new deal has thus given Roberto De Zerbi\u2019s side major leverage in negotiations if bids arrive at the end of the season, as well as rewarding the player for his rise through the ranks.<\/p>\n
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Tottenham will therefore need to weigh up whether they will keep Ferguson on their shortlist of targets for further down the line or accept that they have already been priced out of signing the teenage prospect.<\/p>\n
In a similar vein, United may also feel that they may not have the funds available to pursue Ferguson now that he is contracted to Brighton until 2028. A takeover would have allowed new investors to mark their arrival with marquee signings, like Ferguson, but it is hard to see the Glazers trying to resolve their issues with the fanbase using finances.<\/p>\n