The 18-year-old, who is out of contract in the summer, has gone on to impress in seven Championship outings after initially catching the eye of Slaven Bilic in pre-season training.

Following his appointment as head coach in June, it is understood it took Bilic just two training sessions to decide Ferguson would be a major part of his plans.

The teenager joined Albion aged eight but played at centre-back as he came through the academy ranks.

Bilic, though, has converted him to a full-back – with Ferguson having gone on to impress at both right-back and left-back this season.

Those performances have led to interest from elsewhere with Premier League Crystal Palace reportedly keen on the England under-20 international.

Palace sporting director Dougie Freeman has been spotted at The Hawthorns, with the 45-year-old believed to be running the rule over the defender.

The Eagles have been looking for a right-back ever since the £50million departure of Aaron Wan-Bissaka to Manchester United four months ago.

Chelsea’s Reece James and Liverpool’s former Eagle Nathaniel Clyne were both touted as possibilities in the summer.

Advertising

But despite having a hefty war chest at their disposal, Palace failed to bring in any competition for Joel Ward.

It means they are likely to bring in another right-back when the transfer window reopens in January.

Albion though are determined to keep hold of Ferguson and have held positive contract talks with the defender. Further discussions are due to take place next week.