Rovers have announced the signing of Yasin Ayari on loan from Brighton for the remainder of the campaign.

The Swedish international, who can play in a variety of midfield roles, spent the first half of the season at Coventry and scored once in 13 appearances for the Sky Blues.

Ayari becomes Rovers’ first signing of the January window and will now play alongside Brighton team-mate Andrew Moran at Ewood Park.

The 20-year-old began his career in his home country with AIK, making his debut at just 17 years of age.

It wasn’t long before he was snapped up by Brighton, signing a four-and-a-half-year deal with the Seagulls.

Ayari made his debut in English football during an FA Cup tie against Grimsby last March and also made three appearances in the Premier League, starting against Aston Villa on the final day.

The youngster impressed for Coventry against Rovers earlier this season, coming on as a first-half substitute.

Director of football Gregg Broughton said: “We are delighted to make Yasin the first signing of the January transfer window.

“He had two seasons playing senior football for AIK in Sweden, before joining Brighton last January and going on to make his Premier League debut.

“We are delighted that they have allowed him to become their fourth player in recent years to join Blackburn Rovers on loan.

“As with all Brighton players, Yasin has good technical and physical attributes along with a great character.

“His ability to play in any of the midfield roles gives us good depth and competition in that area for the second half of the season.

“We look forward to seeing Yasin in our blue-and-white shirt over the coming weeks and months.”

Ayari is eligible to make his Rovers debut against Cambridge in the FA Cup third round on Saturday afternoon.