Celtic are now reportedly tracking Evan Ferguson ahead of a potential 2026 move as the Brighton & Hove Albion forward continues to struggle out on loan at AS Roma.
Celtic have faced several problems so far this season, but their frontline has been their biggest issue. Parkhead chiefs failed to replace the impact of Nicolas Kuhn in the summer and part of the reason why Brendan Rodgers resigned was that lack of investment. It’s left them adrift of shock leaders Hearts in the Scottish Premiership and on the hunt for a new manager.
Things are unlikely to get any easier for the Hoops anytime soon, either. Recent reports have claimed that Daizen Maeda is now looking to leave the club in the January transfer window and has Premier League sides interested.
The Japan international may force Celtic’s hand this time around too, having revealed to reporters earlier this season that he was denied an exit in the summer transfer window.
“I had received an offer, and I had been telling the club that I wanted to take the next step, but Celtic hadn’t been able to make any good reinforcements, so in the end they told me that they couldn’t let me.
“There were some things that I had agreed to personally, so I wanted to take on the challenge. My joining the national team was delayed, and I had been talking to Celtic until the last day, but it didn’t work out.”
Whether that is the reason behind Maeda’s poor form is the question that Celtic will be asking. The forward scored 33 goals in all competitions last season, but has so far managed just four in the current campaign.
If his current struggles continue, then it may be best for all parties to move on and for Celtic to shift their focus towards the likes of Ferguson.
Celtic now tracking Evan Ferguson
According to Graeme Bailey, via 67 Hail Hail, Celtic are now tracking Ferguson and could yet make their move in 2026 with Roma looking to cut his loan spell short and send him back to Brighton in January.
It’s been a frustrating year or so for the young striker. From undeniable, he has become unwanted in Italy after failing to score once in 10 appearances. If anyone needs a next move to work out, it is Ferguson.
Whether Celtic is that move is the big question. The Irishman is still just 21 years old and still so full of potential. If the right deal presents itself, the Bhoys should take a chance on Ferguson in the hope that both parties solve their respective problems.
It’s also worth noting that it wasn’t so long ago that Ferguson found himself at the centre of praise from the likes of Jamie Carragher.
The Liverpool legend dubbed the forward “special” whilst also praising then-Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi, saying: “I think that lad he has got up front, I think he’s pretty special. He is only going to get better with him as his manager.”
