Brighton keep hold of Ibrahim Osman after Birmingham City fail to meet asking price

Ibrahim Osman will remain with Brighton after Birmingham City were unable to agree a permanent deal for the Ghana international following his successful loan spell with the Blues.

The 21-year-old winger had impressed during his time at Birmingham City, scoring four goals in 18 appearances. His form had also convinced manager Chris Davies that Osman could play an important role in the squad on a permanent basis.

Osman was understood to be open to staying at St Andrew’s, but the transfer was blocked by Brighton’s financial demands. The Seagulls valued the young forward at about £18m, which is close to €21m.

That figure was considered too high by Birmingham, particularly because of the financial restrictions associated with the squad-cost ratio in the Championship. The club had hoped Brighton would reduce their asking price before the transfer window closed.

The situation changed during pre-season, when Osman’s performances earned him an opportunity with Brighton’s first team. His displays persuaded manager Fabian Hurzeler to retain him as part of the senior squad rather than sanction another move away from the club.

Osman has since featured in the opening Premier League matches, bringing Birmingham’s hopes of signing him to an end for this summer, according to Footy-Africa.

The Ghanaian joined Brighton’s professional group after making an impression during preparations for the new campaign. His involvement at Premier League level means the club now sees a role for him within its own squad, at least for the time being.

Birmingham subsequently explored a move for another Ghana international, Mohammed Fuseini. However, that deal also failed to materialise during the final hours of the transfer window.

The Blues eventually completed the signing of Liam Millar instead, ending their efforts to bring Osman back to the club on a permanent basis.

Osman remains under contract at Brighton until 2029. Birmingham could revisit the possibility of signing him in January if his opportunities in Hurzeler’s team become limited, although there is currently no indication that Brighton are looking to part with the player.

His current market value is estimated at €7m by Transfermarkt, considerably below the asking price Brighton set during the summer negotiations. The valuation does not necessarily reflect the fee the club would demand in a future transfer.

Brighton are due to face Leeds in the third round of the English league season. Betting company 1xBet lists Leeds at 3.70 to win, with a draw priced at 3.50 and a Brighton victory at 1.93.