Evan Ferguson learning from Harry Kane, Robert Lewandowski & Luis Suarez as new Roma striker sets Serie A goal target

The 20-year-old Irish striker, once tipped to be the "next Kane", admitted he tries to pick the best qualities from modern legendary forwards, including the England striker, Robert Lewandowski, Luis Suarez and others. Ferguson, who joined Roma on loan from Brighton with a €38 million (£32m/$41m) option to buy, also revealed that he is eyeing a 20-goal season in his debut season with the Giallorossi.

Ferguson was considered one of the Premier League’s brightest young talents following a breakout season with Brighton in 2023. His value reportedly soared to £100 million, with top Premier League clubs ready to splash money to sign him. However, injuries and a forgettable loan spell at West Ham saw him slip down the pecking order at Brighton. Now, under Gian Piero Gasperini in Rome, Ferguson is determined to reclaim his potential.

He gave a glimpse of that potential in his first game as a Roma player. The Irishman scored four goals, including a 24-minute first-half hat-trick, and added an assist in Roma’s 9-0 thrashing of Serie D side UniPomezia on July 25.

In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ferguson opened up about his move to AS Roma and his expectations of himself after a disappointing last few seasons in England.

"I don't usually think about an exact number of goals. I definitely want to score in every game, even though I know it's not easy. Twenty goals? Let's hope..."

When asked if there is any center forward he looks up to, the 20-year-old said: "‘I try to learn from the best: Kane, Suarez, Ibrahimovic and Lewandowski."

Ferguson will continue his bid to cement a regular starting spot as Roma take on Aston Villa in a pre-season friendly on Wednesday at Bescot Stadium. With his form and focus back, Roma fans may soon see why he was once among the most exciting young prospects in Europe.