Brighton 'doing everything' to agree Yasin Ayari deal after what they saw vs Crystal Palace
Brighton are prepared to do everything in their power to agree a new contract with Yasin Ayari as a result of his displays this season.
The 23-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season, and recently confessed he was uncertain about his future, sparking doubts over whether he would extend his stay.
However, he remains a crucial part of Fabian Hurzeler's plans and impressed in the 5-0 win against Crystal Palace, where he put his side 3-0 up after just 10 minutes.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Brighton are planning to recognise Ayari's role in the side by handing him an extended contract.
The Sweden international has already made 10 appearances so far this season, and Hurzeler is determined not to lose him in the near future despite interest from elsewhere.
Ayari's performance against Crystal Palace has proven he deserves a new deal at the Amex, and Brighton are believed to be working behind the scenes to reach an agreement.
Will Yasin Ayari sign a new contract at Brighton?
Football Insider revealed last month that Brigthon will make efforts to keep Ayari at the club and are already preparing to trigger a one-year extension to his current deal.
That will see the midfielder's stay at the Amex extended until 2028 as they aim to deter his potential suitors and stop him leaving on a free transfer in next summer's window.
However, there is also optimism that he could put pen to paper on a long-term deal, with his role in Hurzeler's side likely to force the club's hand as they ready new talks.
"Ayari has proved is worth in this Brighton team and he was brilliant again against Crystal Palace," Brown told Football Insider.
"So as far as Brighton are concerned, they have to be doing everything in their power to keep him at the club, and that means handing him a new contract as a reward for his form.
"He's an important part of the team under Fabian Hurzeler, and it would come as a significant blow if they were to lose him, so they have to make sure he sticks around.
"When you have a player like that on the books, you can't really afford to lose him on a free transfer, so a contract extension is the logical next step.
"Brighton are obviously known for bringing in these top talents and selling them on for big fees, but they're not going to be able to do that if they let him contract run down."
Which clubs are interested in signing Ayari?
Ayari's performances have not only ensured Brighton are determined to keep hold of him, but have also attracted high-profile interest from a number of potential suitors.
His impressive displays under Hurzeler, plus his potential availability on a free transfer, mean scouts have been keeping a close eye on his situation at the Amex.
Football Insider revealed on 27 September that Newcastle are considering a move to sign Ayari and could pounce if no progress is made towards a new contract.
Newcaslte considered a move to sign Ayari during the summer transfer window, and despite ultimately considering other targets, could now make a move to bring him in.
The likes of AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund have also previously shown an interest in the midfielder, and should Brighton fail to progress in talks, then a move could be on the cards.

