How Roma reshaped their attack in January and what it means for Ferguson and Brighton

Roma reshaped their attack in the winter transfer window, welcoming Donyell Malen, Robinio Vaz and Bryan Zaragoza, sending a clear signal to Evan Ferguson and Artem Dovbyk.

Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini finally welcomed new players in attack during the winter transfer window as the Giallorossi completed three major deals to add depth and quality up front.

Malen joined Roma from Aston Villa on loan with an option to buy that becomes mandatory if the Giallorossi qualify for the Champions League or Europa League. Robinio Vaz moved to the Olimpico on a permanent deal from Olympique Marseille, while Zaragoza arrived on deadline day, on loan with an option to buy from Bayern Munich.

Malen has quickly become a starter under Gasp, starting three games from three in Serie A and scoring in his debut against Torino.

Dovbyk and Ferguson are currently injured, but Malen is expected to be Gasperini’s primary option as a centre-forward in the second part of the campaign.

This also means that Ferguson, who is on loan from Brighton, will likely return to the English club at the end of the campaign, especially because Roma have an option to buy for €40m.

The Republic of Ireland international has scored five goals in 22 appearances across all competitions, but missed two of the last three Serie A games with ankle problems.

Dovbyk has only netted three times and won’t return to action until April after undergoing surgery last month.

Robinio Vaz is currently a backup option at the Olimpico, but his €25m transfer fee, combined with his young age, 18, suggests the Giallorossi see him as a potential starter in the coming years.

Zaragoza will add depth in the Giallorossi attack, replacing injury-prone Leon Bailey, who returned to Aston Villa in January after a troubled six-month loan spell in the capital in the first half of the campaign.