Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler will consider a loan move for Evan Ferguson as he aims to recover from an ankle injury before the end of the month.
Ferguson is somewhat out of favour at the club with goals running dry as well as injury problems.
The Seagulls boss is keen to get the Republic of Ireland international playing again, whether it's with Brighton or temporarily elsewhere.
"It's very important that Evan gets back on the pitch. At the moment he suffers because of the injury. Also, he proved why he is here playing for Brighton," said Hurzeler.
"He came from the youth academy and that’s the way of the club. We will negotiate what is important for him, what is important for his development, where he can improve the best and then we will make the decision together.
"This decision should be what is best for the player and for the club. [Facundo] Buonanotte for example, joined to Leicester on loan last summer.
"We know that the Premier League is a very good league to improve because it’s tough, it’s intense, especially for young players. It’s the perfect environment to adapt.
"In the end, they want to play for Brighton and we want them to play for Brighton. So, when they improve in the environment of the league where we are also playing, it’s always very helpful.
"That’s why I am not thinking about making the other teams better, it’s more about what is best for the player."
West Ham have been linked with Ferguson while other clubs are also likely to be interested if he is put up for a loan switch.
Meanwhile Brighton defender Igor Julio will miss the rest of the season after undergoing surgery on a hamstring injury.
The 26-year-old Brazilian was forced off during the second half of the 1-1 draw at home to Arsenal.
"Igor will be out for the rest of the season," Hurzeler said of the centre-back who has made 15 appearances in all competitions this term.
"It was a hamstring injury. He needed surgery, so it was a big thing."
They do have skipper Lewis Dunk available for the Premier League trip to Ipswich on Thursday.
Dunk has missed two games with a calf injury and Hurzeler said: "Lewis will be back and he's training today [Tuesday].
"Adam Webster and Jan Paul van Hecke are also available. Those are the three centre-backs that are available."
Striker Joao Pedro could return at Portman Road after twisting his ankle in training last week and sitting out Saturday's 4-0 FA Cup third-round win at Norwich, which may help the prospect of Ferguson gaining a loan move.
Additional reporting: PA
