Brighton and Roma in advanced talks over striker loan move | OneFootball

Roma Make Progress in Loan Move for Brighton’s Evan Ferguson

Roma Identify Ferguson as Key Target

Roma are pressing ahead with their pursuit of a new centre-forward and have made significant progress in talks with Brighton over a loan move for Evan Ferguson. The 20-year-old Republic of Ireland international has emerged as a primary target following the sale of Tammy Abraham to Besiktas and the likely departure of Eldor Shomurodov, who is attracting interest from Turkey.

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Ferguson, regarded as one of the Premier League’s brightest young forwards, is now the subject of discussions between Roma sporting director Geoffrey Moncada and his Brighton counterparts. According to Calciomercato, the Seagulls are open to a loan deal to ensure they retain long-term control of the striker, who is under contract until 2029.

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Brighton’s willingness to entertain a loan has brought the deal closer to completion. The final decision now rests with Ferguson himself. Should he agree, the move to Rome would represent a fresh opportunity to revive his momentum following a difficult year.

Ferguson’s Potential and Injury Setback

Ferguson’s rise through the Brighton ranks was meteoric. After joining from Bohemians in 2021, he quickly impressed with his power, movement and finishing. A standout performance came against Newcastle, where he scored a hat-trick during the 2023–24 campaign.

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But his upward trajectory was halted in April 2024 by a cruciate ligament injury. He returned to action on loan at West Ham in early 2025, but featured only sparingly, clocking 151 minutes across eight appearances.

Now, Roma view him as the ideal profile to fit into Gian Piero Gasperini’s plans, physical, technically gifted and eager to make up for lost time.

Decision Now Rests with Player

Brighton have done their part. The terms are in place and the path is clear. What remains is the most crucial component, Ferguson’s decision. At just 20, he faces a choice that could define his next chapter.

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For Brighton supporters, this is a tough one to take. Evan Ferguson represents more than just a squad member. He symbolises the club’s future, the embodiment of their long-term strategy, and a reminder that the Albion can compete at the elite level with smart recruitment and belief in youth.

The idea of letting him leave, even temporarily, feels like a concession. Yes, the injury stalled his progress and yes, game time has been limited. But loaning him to Roma, particularly without a clear path back into Brighton’s starting XI, sends mixed signals.

Supporters had hoped to see Ferguson back in the blue and white this season, fighting for a role, building confidence, and fulfilling his promise. Instead, they’re left hoping that a stint in Serie A sharpens him rather than sidelines him in a new environment.

The decision may be pragmatic, but emotionally, it hits hard. Ferguson should be central to Brighton’s present, not just their future. Letting him go, even on loan, feels like a step back when the club needs to be moving forward.