Liverpool learn of transfer ‘surprise’ over target tipped for big-money move

24 Sept 2026 21:59 BST | 4 min read

Matthew Judge | Editor

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Liverpool have been told it is a “surprise” that they and their Premier League rivals never made a move for Brighton and Hove Albion star Yasin Ayari in the summer.

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Swedish publication Fotbollskanalen reported in June that the Reds were keeping tabs on the 22-year-old, who represented Sweden at the 2026 World Cup.

However, despite those whispers, midfielder Ayari ended up staying at Brighton as Liverpool prioritised signing wingers in the summer transfer window.

Ayari has gone on to sparkle for the Seagulls in the early stages of the new season, scoring in the 5-0 win at Coventry City in the Premier League on 13 September.

And now former Brighton striker Bobby Zamora has tipped Ayari to become the next player to secure a big-money move away from the Amex Stadium.

Brighton have secured huge fees from Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur respectively for Marc Cucurella, Moises Caicedo, Carlos Baleba and Jan Paul van Hecke of late.

In an interview with BetWright Premier League Betting via GOAL, Zamora said of Ayari: “He's incredible as well, seeing him for the last year-and-a-half up close and in training and how good he is. I'm actually surprised that nobody came in this summer.

“He's one that sort of goes under the radar, but when you see him work up close and you see him in training, he's got real, real talent. And again, at such a young age. There's only really bright things for that kid.

“He's an exciting one and one that I think if he continues on the path that he has been this season, yeah, I think somebody will come and try and take him as well.”

Ayari is into the final year of his contract with Brighton but The Athletic understands negotiations are ongoing with the player and his representatives over an extension.

Liverpool could face Ayari in October

Liverpool could get the chance to watch Ayari up close when they entertain in-form Brighton in the Premier League on Sunday, 25 October.

The Merseysiders face the current top four of the Premier League in their next four league fixtures, with clashes against Manchester City, Brentford and Arsenal on the horizon.

Liverpool will also lock horns with LASK, Villarreal and Chelsea in the Champions League and League Cup respectively following the international break.

Ayari and Brighton meanwhile face a trip to Sunderland in their next league fixture on Saturday, 10 October before hosting Kauno in the Conference League five days later.

Liverpool are currently sixth and just one point behind third-placed Brighton in the Premier League, having made an unbeaten start to the season under Andoni Iraola.