Brighton & Hove Albion are preparing to turn down a £20 million transfer bid from Nottingham Forest for midfielder Yasin Ayari, according to sources close to the deal.
Forest, who are currently battling relegation, want to add more quality to their squad before the January transfer window closes on Monday. The club has identified Ayari as a potential midfield reinforcement, but Brighton have no plans to sell the Swedish international at this stage.
Brighton Firm on Ayari’s Future
Brighton value Ayari highly and see him as an important part of their long-term project. Club officials believe the 22-year-old still has plenty to offer and are unwilling to let him leave midway through the season.
Ayari joined Brighton from AIK Stockholm in 2023 in a deal worth around £3.5 million. Since then, he has made 66 appearances for the Seagulls across all competitions and has scored six goals. His steady development has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs.
Ayari’s Development in English Football
The Swedish midfielder has gained valuable experience since arriving in England. Brighton sent him on loan to Blackburn Rovers and Coventry City, where he received regular playing time and improved his physical and tactical game.
Those loan spells helped Ayari adapt to the pace and intensity of English football. As a result, Brighton now see him as a reliable squad option who can grow further under their system.
Forest Continue January Recruitment Push
Nottingham Forest remain active in the transfer market as they try to avoid relegation. The club recently strengthened its attack by signing Italy international Lorenzo Lucca on loan from Napoli.
Forest are also looking to reinforce their goalkeeping department. Wolves goalkeeper Jose Sa has emerged as a potential target after John Victor suffered a season-ending knee injury. Victor had been rotating in goal with Matz Sels, leaving Forest short of options.
Despite their interest in Ayari, Forest may now need to explore alternative midfield targets following Brighton’s firm stance.
Transfer Window Nears Deadline
With the transfer deadline approaching fast, Forest face pressure to complete any remaining deals quickly. Brighton, however, appear relaxed and confident about keeping Ayari beyond the current window.
Unless Forest significantly increase their offer, the midfielder is expected to stay at the Amex Stadium for the rest of the season.
