Former Arsenal official influential in Martin Zubimendi deal set to become Brighton’s technical director after surprise exit of ex-Premier League star

Former Arsenal assistant sporting director Jason Ayto is lined up to become the new technical director at Brighton and Hove Albion.

Ayto worked under former Arsenal sporting director Edu, now at Nottingham Forest, and was promoted into the position of interim sporting director after the Brazilian left in November.

Ayto had been in contention to take the sporting director role at Newcastle United but Nottingham Forest’s Ross Wilson is expected to be appointed there.

He left Arsenal in May after Andrea Berta was appointed as Edu’s successor. The Italian subsequently took the lead on recruitment and contractual issues.

Ayto spent close to 10 years at the Emirates rising through the ranks to become part of the leadership team.

He was close to being appointed Edu’s full-time successor but Berta was eventually offered the position.

Ayto was influential in negotiations for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

He is now ready to take over from David Weir who Brighton confirmed on Friday that he would be leaving the club.

Weir, 55, is highly regarded in the game for the work he did as technical director and his role in their recruitment which has been the envy of many clubs in Europe.

The former Scotland international centre back is expected to be in demand for offers but in the meantime Brighton have moved for Ayto as his replacement.