Newcastle United are reportedly monitoring Brighton midfielder Yasin Ayari as a potential summer signing amid uncertainty over Sandro Tonali’s future at the club.
The 21-year-old has caught the eye with his performances in the Premier League for Brighton and has elevated his reputation further with impressive displays for Sweden at the World Cup.
Ayari scored two goals during Sweden’s World Cup campaign, with analyst Pete O’Rourke highlighting those strikes as evidence of his growing stature in the game.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle are tracking Ayari’s situation closely and could make a concrete move during the summer transfer window.
The interest is directly linked to speculation surrounding Sandro Tonali, with the Italian midfielder potentially set to depart St. James’ Park in the coming months.
O’Rourke outlined Newcastle’s thinking clearly, stating: “Look, if Tonali ends up leaving Newcastle, they’re going to have to try and replace him.”
He added that manager Eddie Howe has specific requirements for any incoming player, saying: “Eddie Howe ideally would like to have somebody who is Premier League proven and could come in and hit the ground running, and Ayari would fit the bill for that type of player.”
O’Rourke was full of praise for the Swedish international’s body of work, noting: “He’s a talented player and has always done a good job for Brighton which has attracted interest in the past.”
The pundit also pointed to his recent tournament form, adding: “Now he’s done a good job with Sweden at the World Cup where he scored two stunning goals to enhance his reputation as well.”
Newcastle’s ambitious project under their Saudi-backed ownership would likely appeal to any player of Ayari’s calibre and age, given the club’s evident desire to build a formidable squad.
However, Brighton are unlikely to make any potential deal straightforward, as Ayari remains a key part of their plans and represents a significant long-term asset for the club.
The Seagulls have consistently demonstrated their ability to develop and retain talented young players, and parting ways with Ayari would represent a real blow to their midfield depth.
Any deal would almost certainly require Newcastle to pay a significant premium in order to convince Brighton to part with one of their most promising midfielders.
Ayari’s qualities as a hardworking, box-to-box midfielder who can contribute goals, creativity, and defensive work make him an attractive prospect for any top-flight club.
How the situation develops over the coming weeks remains to be seen, but Newcastle’s interest signals genuine intent to act quickly if Tonali’s exit is confirmed.
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