Brighton Striker Evan Ferguson Joins Roma on Season-Long Loan with Buy Option

Irish striker Evan Ferguson has joined AS Roma on a one-year loan from Brighton & Hove Albion, with the Serie A club holding an option to buy for around £34-40 million, potentially making him the most expensive Irish player ever. Ferguson, 20, aims to revive his career after injury setbacks and a difficult loan spell at West Ham, where he made just eight appearances. Brighton's coach Fabian Hürzeler highlighted Ferguson's desire for regular play and welcomed the opportunity for him to develop in a strong league with European football prospects. Ferguson becomes the first Irish player at Roma and will wear the number 11 shirt, competing for playing time under new manager Gian Piero Gasperini, who is working to strengthen the squad. Fans and commentators have expressed mixed views on the move, with some seeing it as a valuable learning opportunity in a top league, while others question whether regular minutes might be better secured at a lower level. Roma, who finished fifth in Serie A last season and are preparing for a new campaign with European competition, view Ferguson as a promising addition to their attacking options following the departure of Tammy Abraham.