Ayto left the Gunners at the end of the 2024/25 season, and was succeeded by Italian executive Andrea Berta, who now holds the permanent role.
Now, Ayto is being linked with a move to another Premier League club.
According to an exclusive report from _**[The Telegraph](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2025/07/01/newcastle-transfer-supremo-search-ex-arsenal-contender/)**_, Ayto is a serious contender to become Newcastle's next sporting director.
The Magpies are on the hunt for a replacement after Paul Mitchell stepped down on Monday, less than a year into the role. Ayto is said to be among the names under consideration at St James' Park.