AC Milan weigh January move for Brighton midfielder Yasin Ayari

WHAT HAPPENED
AC Milan have emerged as potential suitors for Brighton midfielder Yasin Ayari, with Italian reports saying the Rossoneri have been monitoring the 22-year-old following his performances for Brighton and Sweden. Those reports indicate Milan could test Brighton’s resolve with an approach as early as the January window.

KEY CONTEXT
Ayari is a Sweden international who can operate in defensive, central and more advanced midfield roles — versatility that has attracted attention. His current Brighton contract runs until 2027, and the club hold an option to extend it by a further year. Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler has publicly expressed his desire to continue working with the midfielder.

Brighton have already rejected a January 2026 offer: Nottingham Forest reportedly had a £20 million bid turned down. Italian outlets now claim Brighton could ask for in excess of €40m. Liverpool and Chelsea have also monitored Ayari’s progress, while Galatasaray and Fenerbahce have explored his availability, suggesting Milan would face competition.

WHY IT MATTERS
The combination of Ayari’s contract situation and interest from several clubs frames the window for any move. Milan’s reported monitoring places Ayari among their midfield targets, but Italian reports currently see a summer transfer as more likely, with Milan expected to prioritise defensive reinforcements in the winter window.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
According to the reporting, whether Milan bring forward plans to January depends on their recruitment strategy and Ayari’s contract status. His performances in the coming months could influence whether Milan accelerate a bid and whether Brighton decide to sell or insist on a higher fee.