Brighton step up efforts to sign Millwall's Femi Azeez
Brighton & Hove Albion are expected to increase their attempts to sign Millwall winger Femi Azeez before the transfer deadline. The 25-year-old has already been the subject of two formal bids, the latest worth over £10 million, but Millwall want more. Azeez is keen on the move and has prioritized Brighton to play in the Premier League.
Brighton's pursuit reflects a clear strategy of targeting proven Championship performers to bolster their attacking options. Azeez's rise has been steep since his modest £1m move from Reading two years ago, with his 11 goals and seven assists last season earning him a spot in the league's official team of the year. His international status with Nigeria adds further appeal.
The transfer window's 11pm Tuesday deadline creates a compressed negotiating timeline. Millwall's resistance is understandable given Azeez's contract still has two years remaining, giving them leverage. However, the player's explicit preference for Brighton and the Premier League could pressure all parties toward a compromise, though the gap in valuations remains significant.
This transfer saga could have ripple effects across multiple levels of English football. For Brighton, securing Azeez may strengthen their squad depth and competitive standing in the Premier League. For Millwall, losing a key attacking contributor mid-season could impact their Championship campaign. The outcome may also influence how lower-division clubs approach player valuations and contract lengths, knowing Premier League interest can emerge quickly. Fans of both clubs could experience heightened anticipation or disappointment depending on the final result, while Azeez's career trajectory may be significantly shaped by whether this move materializes.