The highly rated Republic of Ireland teenager fits the Blues’ youth-first transfer strategy, but Brighton are hesitant to sell.
Chelsea have long admired Brighton teen Evan Ferguson.
Brighton will fight any move for the 19-year-old forward, who recently signed a contract extension until 2029 and could cost more than £100 million.
The Seagulls are not under any obligation to sell and do not want to lose another jewel to Chelsea, whom they persuaded to pay £115 million for Moises Caicedo last summer.
Brighton’s reluctance to lose another star to Chelsea is seen as a major roadblock to any potential future deal for Ferguson.
Last summer, Manchester United and Tottenham were linked with a move for the Republic of Ireland international.
Chelsea have already raided Brighton for a number of players and a manager, and the Seagulls will fight any further move for another asset. The Blues paid £63 million for left-back Marc Cucurella, £25 million for goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, and £21.5 million for coach Graham Potter, a club record.
Chelsea have also signed sporting director Paul Winstanley, scout Kyle Macaulay, and head of goalkeeping Ben Roberts from Brighton, paying the south coast club well over £200 million over three transfer windows.
