Brighton star Yasin Ayari has spoken about how he was the subject of interest from Nottingham Forest in the January transfer window.
The Sweden international has asserted himself as a key player under Fabian Hurzeler over the past few campaigns, making 27 appearances in all competitions so far this season.
The 22-year-old’s performances made him a stalwart for the Seagulls prior to a recent shoulder injury, and prompted Forest to table a bid to acquire his services.
The City Ground outfit were hoping to conduct a raid on Brighton during the winter window, with Lewis Dunk and Jack Hinshelwood both eyed, and their £20million offer for Ayari fell short of Brighton’s valuation of the playmaker too.
Speaking to Fotbollskanalen about the interest from Forest, Ayari explained: “I’m focusing on Brighton. I feel happy there. From my side, it wasn’t something I focused on.
“That’s how it is when you’re a player. It comes (rumours and interest). Regardless of the price tag or the club, it doesn’t matter. I’m happy where I am, and I just have to keep going.”
Ayari is heading into the final 12 months of his contract with Brighton, with his current deal expiring in June 2027, and the former AIK Fotboll star may be hopeful of earning an improved extension before the end of the season.
The Swede was linked with AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund last summer, and it would be no surprise if his performances throughout this campaign have put him on the radar of top European clubs.
Nevertheless, Ayari remains focused on breaking back into the Brighton starting XI regularly now that he is fully fit.
He concluded: “I’m in good shape. I had an injury, but before that, I was doing very well. It’s a tough injury. It’s the shoulder. So the slightest thing that affects it can make it worse. But I feel good. I’m happy. I’m here.
“It happened recently, so I just have to make sure nothing else happens. It’s part of being a player. Injuries happen. You just have to get through it.”