Evan Ferguson’s chances of staying at Roma beyond this season are more uncertain after Aston Villa striker Donyell Malen completed his move to the Italian side.
Roma announced on Friday that the Dutchman has joined them on loan with an option to buy.
Ferguson is himself on loan at the three-time Serie A champions, having joined from parent club Brighton at the start of the campaign on a deal that also comes with an option to buy at the end of the season.
However, the Meath man has yet to find consistent form, scoring five times in 21 games across all competitions. He has also faced occasional criticism from his manager Gian Piero Gasperini.
The 21-year-old will now face greater competition for starting places in the Roma forward line due to both Malen’s arrival and the signing of 18-year-old striker Robinio Vaz from Marseille on a four-year deal.
Netherlands international Malen joined Villa last January from Borussia Dortmund and went on to make 46 appearances.
The 26-year-old has had an impact this season, scoring seven goals, but his transfer could pave the way for Villa to land Tammy Abraham, who is currently on loan at Besiktas from Roma.
The former Chelsea frontman, 28, previously had a spell on loan at Villa when they were in the Championship.
Villa said: “Everyone at Aston Villa would like to thank Donyell for his service to the club and wish him all the very best in his future career.”
Additional reporting: PA