AS Roma is reportedly casting its gaze towards the English Premier League as they look to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season. Sources in Italy suggest that the Giallorossi are currently engaged in discussions with Brighton & Hove Albion concerning potential deals for two of their players: midfielder Matt O`Riley and forward Evan Ferguson.
O`Riley`s Potential Rome Renaissance
Interest in Danish midfielder Matt O`Riley is particularly noted. The 24-year-old made the switch to Brighton from Celtic last summer in a transfer package reportedly valued at up to £30 million with add-ons. However, his debut season in England was unfortunately hampered by injury issues, including an early setback just minutes into his first Premier League appearance for the Seagulls. This restricted him to only 21 league appearances during the 2024-25 campaign.
Despite a challenging introduction to English football, reports indicate that Roma maintains a strong interest in O`Riley. Speculation suggests that Brighton might be open to a deal structured as a loan with an obligation to purchase, which could offer a pathway for the Dane to revitalise his career. Furthermore, it is understood that Roma`s newly appointed head coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, is an admirer of O`Riley`s qualities, perhaps seeing him as a key component for his tactical setup in the Eternal City.
Ferguson Seeks Fresh Start After Loan Spell
Simultaneously, discussions are also said to be underway regarding Irish striker Evan Ferguson. The young forward spent the latter half of the recently concluded season on loan at fellow Premier League club West Ham United. His temporary spell in East London proved less fruitful than anticipated, with Ferguson featuring in just 8 matches across all competitions and notably, for a striker, failing to find the back of the net.
This loan experience followed a period of reduced goalscoring form for Ferguson, who has reportedly scored only a single goal in his last 21 Premier League appearances spanning the beginning of the previous season. Roma`s reported approach for the Irishman is believed to be focused on a loan arrangement that includes an option to buy. A move to Serie A could provide Ferguson with a crucial opportunity for a fresh start and the chance to rediscover the form that once made him one of the most highly-rated young strikers in England.
These reported negotiations highlight Roma`s strategy to potentially acquire players who, while possessing demonstrable talent, have recently faced challenges. For Brighton, considering offers for players acquired relatively recently at considerable cost might suggest a strategic reassessment or a willingness to facilitate moves that benefit both the players and the club`s squad dynamics. The coming weeks will reveal whether these reported talks mature into confirmed transfers, adding an intriguing chapter to the summer transfer window for both clubs.
