AS Roma is set to welcome Evan Ferguson as their second summer signing, with the striker joining on a loan deal from Brighton. However, coach Gian Piero Gasperini is expressing considerable concern over the slow pace of new player arrivals, emphasizing the need for more additions with the new season just a month away.
Ferguson`s Arrival Confirmed
Reports from various sources, including Fabrizio Romano, confirm that Roma has finalized an agreement to bring Brighton`s young forward, Evan Ferguson, to the club. The 20-year-old is expected to move to the Stadio Olimpico initially on a loan, with an option for Roma to make the transfer permanent for a reported €40 million.
Ferguson will be the second significant acquisition for Roma this summer, following the arrival of Lens midfielder Neil El Aynaoui, who is scheduled for medical tests next week.
Gasperini`s Impatience Over Transfers
Despite these two incoming players, Gasperini has not yet been able to work with any new signings during the pre-season. This situation prompted the Italian coach to voice his apprehension regarding the lack of squad reinforcements thus far.
“We`ve encountered some obstacles, and as a result, we`re a bit behind schedule,” Gasperini stated on Saturday after Roma`s dominant 14-0 victory over Trastevere in their opening pre-season friendly. “We arrived here with several players missing, and we`re eager to get them back. We hope for a push from the club, as they`ve shown great willingness. We understand what`s required and the type of players we`re targeting. I anticipate a faster pace in the transfer market. The club is doing its best to address the gaps and build the team I`ve requested.”
Gasperini shared his concerns with the media just hours before the full agreement for Ferguson was reached.
“A little bit, yes, because we`ve been working for eight days, and the season starts in a month,” the coach admitted. “But I am confident that what we need will be secured.”
In positive news, Paulo Dybala made his return from injury in the friendly, netting two goals. “Paulo has returned in good form, with a solid training foundation,” Gasperini observed, as reported by Corriere dello Sport. “He clearly isn`t striking the ball at his absolute best yet, but he didn`t show any signs of that today.”
