Brighton
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Brighton & Hove Albion have moved swiftly to find a replacement for outgoing technical director David Weir, with ex-Arsenal executive Jason Ayto emerging as the leading candidate.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed on Friday that Ayto is the frontrunner for the role, revealing that initial talks have already taken place. “Jason Ayto, favorite candidate to become new Brighton technical director. Talks already took place with former Arsenal assistant director, as Daily Mail reported,” Romano posted on X.
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Weir’s sudden departure earlier this week left a significant void at the Amex. The former Scotland international, who stepped into the role in 2021, was instrumental in Brighton’s acclaimed recruitment model, helping to unearth stars such as Moises Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister and Kaoru Mitoma.
🚨🔵⚪️ Jason Ayto, favorite candidate to become new Brighton technical director.
Talks already took place with former Arsenal assistant director, as Daily Mail reported. pic.twitter.com/XuM3j4daWh
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 12, 2025
Ayto, 42, brings extensive experience from his time at Arsenal, where he worked alongside sporting director Edu before stepping up as interim sporting director following Edu’s departure in November 2024. During his tenure, Ayto oversaw several key transfers and played a role in Arsenal’s push for Champions League qualification last season.
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The Daily Mail first reported that discussions between Brighton and Ayto are already underway, with the Seagulls impressed by his reputation for smart scouting and a data-driven approach, qualities that mirror the club’s sustainable recruitment philosophy under owner Tony Bloom.
Ayto left Arsenal in May following the arrival of Andrea Berta as the club’s new sporting director, leaving him free to pursue other opportunities. Though previously linked with Newcastle United, Brighton appear to have acted quickly to secure his services ahead of what promises to be another busy transfer window.
Should Ayto be appointed, he would work closely with head coach Fabian Hürzeler as Brighton aim to build on a promising start to the 2025/26 campaign.
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