"We tried to sign him last January and he's a lad with lots of experience," Bayliss told BBC Radio Cumbria.
"He can play right or left side, or down the middle up front, he's very quick and he's a tall lad too."
Born in Keighley, Forrest began his career with Bradford City and made 50 league appearances before joining up with Halifax and then Crawley, where he spent the last two seasons.
And Bayliss is convinced that despite only receiving a one-year deal at this stage, Forrest will be given an opportunity to stake his claim for a longer stay with the Bluebirds.
"If Danny's enjoying it, and I'm sure he will, then we'll look into extending that deal," added Bayliss.
"We're not in a position to offer players two or three-year deals as money is tight and Danny understands that.
"He's a really good pro, Crawley are one of the best sides in the division and for Danny to play 70, 80 games for the club then it shows he has calibre."
Source: BBC Sport
Source: BBC Sport