Roberto De Zerbi has welcomed news of agreement over a longer-term deal for Evan Ferguson.

But the Albion striker appears unlikely to feature against Nottingham Forest tomorrow.

Ferguson has enjoyed an impressive first four months in the Premier League and has been rewarded by a new contract running until 2028.

Head coach De Zerbi said today: “It’s very important news. He can improve a lot with us.

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"Playing in Brighton there are the right conditions for young players.

“He is still 18. It's good news. I think he is playing very well. With Manchester United, it was bad for us without him.

“He has different qualities, can give us different solutions in the last 20, 30 metres.”

Ferguson suffered an ankle injury at Chelsea recently and missed the FA Cup semi-final.