Celtic are not expected to make a move for Evan Ferguson after Brighton put a huge £28 million price tag on the striker.
The Irish forward had been mentioned as a possible target for the Hoops this summer, but that always seemed unlikely. Now, with this price being reported, it’s clear the deal is far out of Celtic’s range.
Spanish outlet Relevo say Brighton have offered Ferguson to Italian clubs Roma and Atalanta as they try to sell him before the new season. Other English clubs like Everton and Nottingham Forest are also said to be interested.
Ferguson, 20, was tipped to become a top Premier League striker after a strong season with Brighton in 2022/23. But since then, things haven’t gone to plan.
He’s had injury problems and struggled to score goals. He was sent on loan to West Ham in January but didn’t manage to score there either.
With his form dipping, Brighton still seem keen to cash in, but their valuation will likely scare off a number of clubs, including Celtic. The Hoops have never spent close to that amount on one player, with their record signing sitting around £11 million.
Celtic have already brought in Callum Osmand to the squad, meaning they are already strengthening their attack. Spending over £25 million on one player simply isn’t how the club operates.
Even if Ferguson was open to a move to Scotland, the money involved means Celtic will be watching this one from the sidelines.
The striker’s future now looks set to lie elsewhere, likely in the Premier League or Serie A, where clubs can meet Brighton’s asking price.
