Sports

Zirkzee issues give new AS Roma chance to Ferguson, but Bailey could return to Aston Villa

Published

19 hours ago

8 January 2026

ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 23: Leon Bailey of AS Roma reacts during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between AS Roma and FC Viktoria Plzen at Stadio Olimpico on October 23, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

With Joshua Zirkzee talks stalling, Roma are reportedly considering keeping Evan Ferguson until the end of the season, but Leon Bailey could already return to Aston Villa.

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Roma consider keeping Ferguson at the Olimpico until the end of the season.

The Giallorossi had identified Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee as their main target in attack, but the recent managerial change at Old Trafford has halted negotiations between the Red Devils and Roma.

Ferguson could stay at Roma until end of the season

LECCE, ITALY - JANUARY 06: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma during the Serie A match between US Lecce and AS Roma at Stadio Via del Mare on January 06, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images) — LECCE, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma during the Serie A match between US Lecce and AS Roma at Stadio Via del Mare on January 06, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

According to Gazzetta, Roma recently contacted Brighton to discuss Ferguson’s possible return to the English club during the January window, but the difficulties in getting Zirkzee might well convince Roma to retain Ferguson until the end of the season.

The Irish striker has netted twice and provided one assist in his last three Serie A appearances.

On the other hand, Bailey could return to Aston Villa this month as the Jamaican has been struggling with injuries during his time in the capital, and has only played 237 minutes across all competitions.

Bailey back to Aston Villa?

ROME, ITALY - OCTOBER 29: Leon Bailey of AS Roma controls the ball against Alessandro Circati of Parma Calcio 1913 during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Parma Calcio 1913 at Stadio Olimpico on October 29, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images) — ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 29: Leon Bailey of AS Roma controls the ball against Alessandro Circati of Parma Calcio 1913 during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Parma Calcio 1913 at Stadio Olimpico on October 29, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

According to Gazzetta, Bournemouth have shown interest in Bailey, and Roma would gladly terminate his loan to send him back to Aston Villa.

Roma are still working to bring more attacking reinforcements to the Stadio Olimpico as soon as possible and are close to reaching a full agreement with Atletico Madrid star Giacomo Raspadori.

Source: Gazzetta dello Sport newspaper, January 8, 2026, page 29.