Brighton have been aware that they may lose Bissouma for some time. The former Lille star has become one of the best midfielders outside the traditional top six of the Premier League. As such, it has been a battle for Brighton to keep him.

They have managed to ward off some suitors in the past. But their efforts seem to be reaching a conclusion they have been dreading.

Bissouma has been impressive for Brighton over the last few years, after joining the club from Lille back in 2018. His performances have attracted the likes of Manchester United, who have previously been interested in the midfielder.

To push himself to the next level, the 25-year-old may have to leave the club to express himself in European competitions.

According to 90min, the Mali international has now made it clear to the club that he is considering a future elsewhere. And with a contract expiring in 2023, the Seagulls may be forced to listen to his wishes.

If they do not sell him this summer, he could walk away as a free agent by the end of next season. The only other way for Brighton to avoid that would be extending his contract, which they are trying to do but without success.

Manchester United are in the market for a midfielder, and their interest in Declan Rice has been well documented. According to the Daily Mail, West Ham will demand a £150m fee for the English star.

United may turn to alternative targets due to his hefty price tag, and therefore interest in Bissouma could accelerate in the summer. Now he’s made it known he wants to leave the club, there will be plenty of interest from clubs around Europe to attempt to secure his signature.

The Ivorian-born star has made 118 appearances since signing for Brighton in 2018. His time on the South Coast may be coming to a conclusion, though.

There are no details of the kind of asking price Brighton may have for Bissouma. They spent more than £15m to take him four years ago.

His stock has likely risen since then. But the lack of time left on his contract may work against them on the flipside.