Everton and West Ham blow as Chelsea in pole position to sign Evan Ferguson

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Everton and West Ham United have both been hit with a major blow in the race for Evan Ferguson.

The two clubs have shared striker targets for the large part of this month with the two Premier League sides eyeing improvement.

It has been a difficult window to operate in for Everton with The Friedkin Group keen to sign a new forward.

But David Moyes has now seen his options depleted up top with Dominic Calvert-Lewin suffering a hamstring injury which is set to keep him out for weeks.

Armando Broja and Youssef Chermiti’s injuries means Beto is in line to start for Everton against Leicester City on Saturday.

With time running out in the window, the Toffees and West Ham have seen a European powerhouse enter the race for Ferguson.

• READ MORE: Everton offered opportunity to sign ‘quality’ Newcastle United target at bargain price

Chelsea lead the race to sign Evan Ferguson

Everton and West Ham are keen to sign Ferguson before Monday’s deadline with the striker available on loan or a permanent deal.

However, there has now been a major change in the pursuit of the youngster.

According to The Guardian, Chelsea have now entered the race to sign the Brighton & Hove Albion striker before the deadline.

And it is believed the Blues are set to outmuscle both Everton and West Ham for the 20-year-old.

This will come as a real blow with Graham Potter eyeing a reunion with Ferguson and Moyes desperate for additions.

But Everton could now turn their attention to Taiwo Awoniyi who Nottingham Forest would be willing to sell this weekend.

• READ MORE: Everton mainstay looks set to leave against David Moyes’ wishes in the summer

Everton need to provide Beto competition

Just a couple of weeks ago, Beto was furious with Moyes after starting Calvert-Lewin over him against Aston Villa.

Now the Portuguese striker finds himself set to start on Saturday against Leicester.

Beto has been praised by James Tarkowski for the work he has put in behind-the-scenes at Everton in training.

However, the 26-year-old needs competition to push him in the starting XI as there is currently no pressure on him for the spot.

But Moyes will also be wary of Everton losing Beto to an injury if he is being forced to play every single game without someone to replace him.