Celtic are now reportedly pursuing Evan Ferguson ahead of a potential move in 2026, as the Brighton & Hove Albion forward continues to struggle with his loan move to AS Roma.
Celtic have faced a number of issues so far this season, but their biggest challenge has been up front. Parkhead bosses were unable to replace Nicholas Coon’s influence in the summer and lack of investment was one of the reasons Brendan Rodgers resigned. As a result, he has been separated from shock leaders Hearts in the Scottish Premiership and is currently looking for a new manager.
Things are unlikely to get any easier for the Hoops any time soon. According to recent reports, Daenen Maeda is considering leaving the club in the January transfer window, with various Premier League teams expressing interest.
The Japan international revealed to reporters earlier this season that he had been refused a move during the summer transfer window, and may be able to force Celtic to make a move this time as well.
“I had received an offer and told the club that I wanted to take the next step, but Celtic were having a hard time finding good reinforcements, and in the end I was told that they wouldn’t let me do it.
“I wanted to take on the challenge because I had a personal agreement with them.I was delayed in joining the national team and I was in talks with Celtic until the last day, but things didn’t work out.”
Celtic will have to ask if that is the cause of Maeda’s slump. The forward scored 33 goals in all competitions last season, but has only scored four goals so far this season.
If his current struggles continue, it may be best for all parties to move on and for Celtic to shift their focus to players like Ferguson.
Celtic are chasing Evan Ferguson
According to Graham Bailey, 67 Hail Hail, Celtic are currently pursuing Ferguson and could still move on in 2026, with Roma considering cutting his loan spell short and sending him back to Brighton in January.
It’s been a frustrating year for the young striker. There is no denying that having played in 10 games and not scoring a single goal has made him an unwanted player in Italy. If there’s anyone who needs to make the next move, it’s Ferguson.
The big question is whether Celtic will make such a move. The Irishman is only 21 years old and still has a lot of potential. If the right deal comes to fruition, the Boies will give Ferguson a chance and hope the two sides can work out their issues.
It’s also worth noting that it wasn’t that long ago that Ferguson found himself at the center of praise from the likes of Jamie Carragher.
The Liverpool legend called the forward ‘special’, while praising then-Brighton manager Roberto de Zerbi: “I think that player was up front. I think he’s a pretty special player, and he’s only going to get even better with him as manager.”
