Newcastle United are exploring a potential January move for Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Yasin Ayari. The Magpies have monitored the 22-year-old Sweden international's situation for some time, with interest dating back before their major midfield departures this summer.

Head coach Matthias Jaissle is reshaping a younger squad at St James' Park and has been assessing midfield options. Newcastle considered Ayari during the previous transfer window before pursuing other targets. The club's potential move is understood to depend on whether longer-term contract negotiations between Ayari and Brighton stall, despite the Seagulls' plan to activate a one-year extension option.

Ayari's contract and Brighton's stance

Brighton & Hove Albion hold an option to extend Yasin Ayari's current deal, which runs until 2027, by another twelve months. The club plans to activate that clause, which would keep the midfielder under contract through 2028. Brighton remain keen to retain Ayari and are under no immediate pressure to sell, with sources describing the internal mood as relaxed regarding his contract situation.

External interest and competition

Should Ayari's future become uncertain, Newcastle would likely face competition. Clubs including AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund have previously shown interest in the player. Football journalist Pete O'Rourke noted the ongoing scrutiny. "I think there will be clubs monitoring his situation at Brighton, like Newcastle who have been interested previously," O'Rourke said.

The speculation comes as Brighton enjoy a strong start to the season, sitting third in the Premier League standings with ten points from five games. Their recent form includes a 3-0 victory over Arsenal and a dramatic 3-2 comeback win at Manchester United. Brighton's next challenge is a home fixture against Brentford. With the club in a positive position, retaining key squad members like Ayari is seen as important for the campaign ahead. His existing contract runs for another full season after this one.

The report in full is at sports.yahoo.com