Vidosic expects Kirby to stay despite interest

Brighton manager Dario Vidosic expects midfielder Fran Kirby to remain at the club during the January transfer window despite reported interest from Juventus.

Reports in Italy, external claim Brighton have rejected three bids for 32-year-old Kirby but Vidosic says she is "very important" to the club.

He did not comment further on Juve's interest but emphasised the importance of Kirby, who joined from WSL champions Chelsea in 2024.

"She helps us a lot, not just on the field, but with leadership quality, experience and her calmness," said Vidosic.

"It helps the younger players and others around her. She leads by example. You can see when she's missing games, that there is a slight difference.

"We can't deny her quality or what she brings. She's definitely one I want here when 3 February rolls around!"

Brighton take on Nottingham Forest in this Sunday's FA Cup fourth round tie and he hopes success in the competition will help the club retain players like Kirby.

Asked if it was important to satisfy their ambitions with silverware, Vidosic said: "Yes. I think it's also the football style as well. When you look and feel that improvement, it's a big thing that helps. Fran sees it.

"The players are all ambitious and want to play at the highest level. We can't be angry at someone for those ambitions but we want to be right up there.

"We understand it's a process. It doesn't just happen overnight. We want to get to Wembley and I would love for this team to deliver silverware.

"The ambition is there but we need the likes of Fran, and players of that calibre, to help us achieve those ambitions."