Everton May Pursue A Move For 21-Year-Old Republic Of Ireland International: Do They Need Him? | OneFootball

According to a report by Graeme Bailey, Everton have placed Evan Ferguson firmly on their shortlist as they scan the winter market for a striker who can bring more bite and presence to an attack that too often promises more than it delivers across long stretches of the season.

As a result, the 21-year-old Brighton & Hove Albion forward has become a genuine option for the Toffees, especially with his current loan spell at AS Roma losing direction and failing to give him any real rhythm.

Everton have placed Evan Ferguson firmly on their shortlist as they scan the winter market for a striker

Moreover, Roma could end that agreement midway through the 2025/26 campaign, which leaves room for movement and draws fresh attention from clubs looking for an opportunity. Still, Everton face competition in that chase, because Celtic and Leicester City continue to keep close tabs on the Irishman and stand ready to act if the situation opens up.

Ferguson’s career path has shifted noticeably since his early breakthrough at Brighton, where he caught the eye with his physical edge, sharp movement, and a striker’s instinct that suggested bigger things lay ahead.

ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 02: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma warms up prior to the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between AS Roma and LOSC Lille at Stadio Olimpico on October 02, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

However, after he slipped down the pecking order during the first half of the 2024/25 season, Brighton approved loan moves to West Ham United and later Roma, expecting regular minutes to follow. Instead, those spells went nowhere, and as a result, he logged only 620 minutes across 15 appearances in all competitions, which helps explain why confidence and continuity never took hold.

Meanwhile, Everton’s interest makes sense when viewed against their current attacking options. Beto continues to swing between flashes of promise and spells of frustration, while Thierno Barry still looks like a work in progress rather than a clear first choice.

Therefore, Everton have explored the market widely, with club officials weighing up names like Yuri Alberto internally, yet Ferguson still appeals because of his age, league experience, and room to develop.

Do the Toffees need him?

Another Premier League move now looks possible, especially if Roma step aside early and Brighton lean towards a short-term solution with a clearer plan. Given Everton’s need for a forward who can occupy defenders, link play, and grow into responsibility, Ferguson matches what they lack, although questions remain around form and fitness.

In our view, the Toffes should only move on sensible terms, because the ability remains there, yet he needs patience, trust, and steady minutes, and if the club can offer that platform, he could turn into a smart, if measured, addition rather than an instant answer.