Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Dean Ferris has confirmed that he’s looking at a switch to Europe in the FIM Motocross World Championship as early as next year if a deal can be put in place.

The 21-year-old has been a revelation since stepping up to the Pro Open class of the MX Nationals in Australia last year, finishing third in the series as a privateer.

This year saw Ferris picked up by Kawasaki to partner Scotsman Billy Mackenzie in the Open class, currently leading the championship by 14 points with just two rounds remaining.

Rumours have been rife that Ferris is determined to head to Europe next season, and he confirmed to MotoOnline.com.au yesterday afternoon that he definitely plans to make to trip.

“It’s definitely a possibility at this stage,” Ferris confirmed. “I haven’t been wheeling and dealing or anything, I just want to get this championship over and done with, focus on it. After Coolum I guess I’ll try to make a plan on what to do.

“I’ve been a fan of the Aussie riders who have gone to Europe and the motocross scene there is massive. Being a world champion has always been a goal of mine and I think to start my international career, it’d be a wiser move to go to Europe rather than America.”

While maintaining the goal of heading to the U.S. during his career, Ferris has opted to follow in the footsteps of Chad Reed and the late Andrew McFarlane by establishing himself in Europe beforehand.

Ferris already has minimal experience in Europe after contesting three GPs last year in Germany, the Netherlands and Italy’s season finale. His best result came on debut, where he scored a satisfying 16th despite limited time on the factory Honda.

Last year also saw Ferris represent Australia at the Motocross of Nations in Colorado, partnering Brett Metcalfe and Jay Marmont to sixth overall for Team Australia.

This season, Ferris leads the Pro Open championship against former GP winners Mackenzie and Kiwi Josh Coppins, who has finished top three in the MX1 World Championship on multiple occasions during his career.