Roma 'in final stages' of deal to sign Ireland striker Evan Ferguson

James Cox

Republic of Ireland striker Evan Ferguson is reportedly on the verge of signing for Serie A giants Roma.

Ferguson became Brighton and Ireland's youngest ever Premier League scorer at 18 in 2022.

The Seagulls tied him to a long-term contract and his form saw him linked with the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United.

After struggling for form and appearances, Ferguson went on loan to West Ham last season where he made eight appearances.

A move to Roma, who finished fifth in Italy's top flight last season, would be a big positive for the former Bohemians striker.

Leading football journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that the deal is entering its "final stages" and that Ferguson, 20, "wants AS Roma".

The deal is expected to be a loan with an option to buy, and it remains unclear if it will be an obligation to buy.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Brighton are asking for €45 million for the obligation to buy, while Roma are aiming for €25 million for the option to buy.

A deal could be finalized with an offer of €35 million for the loan deal with a conditional obligation to buy.

Ferguson played both legs of Brighton's Europa League last-16 clash against Roma in 2024. The Premier League side won 1-0 at home, before falling to a 4-0 defeat in Roma.

The young striker has scored five goals in 22 appearances for Ireland, and will be a key man for Heimir Hallgrímsson in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.