West Bromwich Albion and Charlton Athletic were thought to be the frontrunners for the Moroccan's signature, with both clubs having substantial funds available following summer sales.
However, Addicks boss Alan Pardew is now believed to be looking at former West Ham charge Hayden Mullins as a midfield option, along with Chelsea's young forward Scott Sinclair. Baggies boss Tony Mowbray, meanwhile, is thought to have switched his attention to Felipe Teixeira of Portuguese side Academica as his preferred playmaker.
One other side said yesterday to be in the hunt for Safri was Southampton, but little more has been heard about the intentions of the South coast club.