Celtic’s search for a striker has the club in contact with agents all over the globe.
But might the best option for Martin O’Neill be a familiar face from closer to home?
There have been mixed messages on whether he is available in January, but Celtic have been tracking Evan Ferguson since November, with his spell at Roma not going as planned.
His brace against the Hoops at Celtic Park reminded everyone of his quality, but overall, his spell in the Italian capital has been a struggle.
This has led to talk of a January return to Brighton, potentially in order to move elsewhere. But Frederic Massara, the Roma sporting director, has sent out a clear message on his situation.
The reason why Evan Ferguson would join Celtic is _ _ _ _ _
Roma sporting director on Celtic target Evan Ferguson
Roma’s signing of Aston Villa striker Donyell Malen has further complicated Ferguson’s situation, seemingly pushing him further down their pecking order.
With Ireland facing crucial World Cup play-offs in March, the players may agitate for a move out of self-preservation.
READ MORE: Celtic ‘make enquiries’ for Hungarian winger also being linked with Rangers
However, judging from the words of Massara, that is not what Roma want. Despite his inconsistent performances, the club still seem to believe in the 21-year-old.
Speaking ahead of their 2-0 win against Torino, for which Ferguson was injured, the director said: “Evan Ferguson leaving? Ferguson has been showing off all his qualities lately.
“It’s a shame he’s injured now, but we hope to have him back soon. We’re counting on it.”
Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini added, after the game: “He’s grown since the beginning.
“The important thing now is for him to grow in terms of motivation, to understand that Roma is a great opportunity for him.”
If he were to become available, the Hoops would be far from the only club interested in Ferguson.
Fulham are said to be admirers, with their move for PSV striker Ricardo Pepi being complicated by injury. Premier League money tends to talk in these situations.
What would you say to Dermot Desmond about Celtic’s transfer model now?
Celtic’s striker search: who will it be?
Some see Mohamed Bamba as a likely option for Celtic, with the Ivorian striker still available on loan with an option to buy.
What is more certain is who it won’t be. Franko Kovacevic is set to join Ferencvaros, despite Celtic holding concrete interest in the Croatian striker.
The lack of movement on the Kieron Bowie front seems to hint that Hibs aren’t playing ball. His transfer fee of £6.5 million would be a confident investment by Celtic.
What won’t be great for the Hoops’ confidence is their failed approach for Leeds’ Joel Piroe; their suggestion of taking a player from Rangers’ English affiliates was reportedly laughed off.
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