Newcastle set sights on signing Yasin Ayari to replace big name likely to leave
Newcastle United have set their sights on a move to sign Brighton star Yasin Ayari as they aim to bolster their midfield options.
The 22-year-old has been a consistent performer for Brighton over the last season, and has grabbed the attention of scouts from top clubs including the Magpies.
His performance in Sweden's opening World Cup clash against Tunisia also grabbed attention as he scored two goals in a 5-1 win in Mexico.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Newcastle are strong admirers of Ayari and believe he would be perfect for Eddie Howe.
The boss is aiming to sign players with Premier League experience this summer, while also recruiting young talents, and the Brighton star would tick both boxes.
Amid ongoing doubts about the future of Newcastle's star midfielders including both Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes, Ayari has emerged as a potential replacement.
Could Newcastle make a move to sign Yasin Ayari?
Ayari has long been admired by some of Europe's top clubs, after Football Insider revealed last summer that Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan were keeping tabs on him.
Newcastle have now become the latest side to show an interest, and while they will likely face competition in their pursuit, they could tempt him to stay in the Premier League.
Howe is keen to bolster his midfield options and has identified Ayari as a leading target, as they now weigh up whether to make a move.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Look, if Tonali ends up leaving Newcastle, they're going to have to try and replace him.
"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.
"He's a talented player and has always done a good job for Brighton which has attracted interest in the past.
"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."
How do Brighton feel about losing Ayari?
Despite interest from Newcastle emerging alongside that from top clubs across Europe, Brighton are believed to be keen to keep the midfielder on the south coast.
Ayari has become an important player under Fabian Hurzeler and made 29 Premier League appearances last season, catching the eye of watching scouts.
Football Insider revealed last summer that Brighton had placed a £20m price tag on Ayari and were open to letting him leave for the right price amid growing interest.
His performances at the World Cup could see that price tag expand alongside his list of suitors, but with just one year left on his contract, their demands remain to be seen.
Should they move to keep him at the Amex, he will remain a key part of Hurzeler's squad in the Conference League, but a lot may depend on his asking price.