Brendan Rodgers’ pursuit of a new striker is still ongoing, but Celtic appear likely to miss out on one of their reported targets.
Evan Ferguson, the Brighton forward, had been loosely linked with a potential loan move to Celtic in recent months — speculation that initially surfaced back in January. However, he eventually joined West Ham for the latter part of last season.
Now, it appears the Republic of Ireland international is on the verge of another move. Trusted sources in Italy indicate that the 20-year-old is close to sealing a loan deal with Serie A outfit Roma.
According to Gazzetta, the Italian club will cover Ferguson’s full wages — around €1.8 million (£1.5 million) — for a season-long loan. However, there will reportedly be no option to make the transfer permanent next summer.
In addition to Ferguson, Roma are also said to be nearing a deal for former Celtic star Matt O’Riley. The midfielder’s debut season at Brighton was plagued by injury following his high-profile £25 million switch from Parkhead. O’Riley has expressed his dissatisfaction over being used out of position by Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler.
Roma’s new manager, Gian Piero Gasperini, had previously attempted to sign the Danish international for Atalanta a year ago. Now in charge at the Stadio Olimpico, he’s apparently keen to offer O’Riley his ideal role — either as a number eight or a box-to-box midfielder.
Meanwhile, Gustaf Lagerbielke has officially left Celtic on a permanent basis and shared a heartfelt farewell on social media.
The Swedish centre-back, who spent last season on loan at FC Twente in the Netherlands, has now completed a move to Portuguese side Braga.
Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, he wrote:
“Celtic!
I want to thank you for the last two years. To all the players I’ve had the privilege to get to know and share a pitch with. To the staff who has always been there and that I’ve learnt a lot from.
And an extra big thank you to the supporters for always being there for the team and for making this club so special. I wish you all the best of luck in the future and that Glasgow continues to be green and white. Hail hail.”
