Sources: Brighton to trigger Yasin Ayari deal imminently
Brighton are planning to trigger Yasin Ayari's contract extension in the coming weeks, sources have told Football Insider.
The 22-year-old is out of contract in June 2027 as things stand, but the Seagulls are keen to protect their asset and now plan to trigger their optional extension clause.
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.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Brigthon view Ayari as an important part of their plans and are unwilling to let him leave on a free.
The Sweden international has started four of their five Premier League games so far this season, as well as both legs of their Conference League qualifyer, and is highly regarded.
Brighton are looking to establish his immediate future before opening talks regarding a new contract, but with no news on the latter, are prepared to trigger their option.
How do Brighton feel about losing Yasin Ayari?
Football Insider revealed in June that Brighton have been assessing Ayari's contract situation and deciding whether or not to hand him a new deal in the next 12 months.
They will buy times for themselves by triggering this one-year extension, which means they will not have to rush into talks and have eased fears about losing him on a free.
Fabian Hurzeler views Ayari as an important part of his plans, and hopes he will stay long-term, but plans are being put in place for the immedaite future as a precaution.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Obviously, Ayari's contract is set to expire in 2027, but Brighton do have an option to extend that until 2028.
"I'm sure they are putting plans in place and will take that up just to safeguard their asset and make sure he doesn't leave for free next summer.
"I don't think Brighton are under any immediate pressure to sort out his contract situation because of that 12-month extension clause they've got on it as well.
"I don't think there's any panic or anything else over his contract situation and everybody's relaxed about it. But look, I'm sure that Brighton will be doing everything they can to try and resolve his long-term future."
Which clubs are interested in signing Ayari?
Brighton's plans to move quickly over Ayari's contract situation have come amid interest from clubs both in the Premier LEague and across Europe in the midfielder.
His recent performances at the Amex, as well as consistent displays over the last two seasons, have inspired high-profile interest from clubs who are eyeing his situation.
Football Insider exclusively revealed last summer that Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan have both been watching Ayari closely and could move to tempt him away from Brighton.
Newcastle United are also believed to be among his long-term admirers and were keeping tabs on his performances for Sweden at the World Cup.
Should Brighton prove unable to tie him down to a long-term contract, they may be forced to sell, but their current stance on his extension could deter his suitors.