Jason Ayto Set to Take Over as Brighton’s New Technical Director

Brighton & Hove Albion are in advanced talks with Jason Ayto to appoint him as their next technical director after the surprise departure of David Weir earlier this month. Ayto, who recently served as Arsenal’s assistant director, is now seen as the favorite candidate for the important role.

WHAT HAPPENED?

David Weir, who became Brighton’s technical director in 2022, left the club just eleven days after the summer transfer window closed, catching fans and analysts by surprise. Since then, club leadership has been searching for a new direction and technical vision. Jason Ayto, highly regarded for his work behind the scenes at Arsenal where he assisted Edu Gaspar, has been in formal discussions with Brighton to succeed Weir. Talks have already taken place and a decision could be announced soon.

WHY BRIGHTON MADE THE CHANGE

Brighton are currently focused on strategic, long-term planning. Their decision to part ways with Weir so soon after the transfer window ended allows his successor to have several months to prepare for the next transfer cycle and the remainder of the 2025-26 Premier League season. Brighton have built a strong reputation for smart recruitment and player development, becoming a model for other mid-table clubs in England. The current season has seen the team secure mid-table stability, sitting 13th in the league with ne win, one draw and two losses, a drop in performance from last season when they finished 8th. The club’s next fixture is against Tottenham, who have three wins and one loss so far this season and will be facing Villarreal in the Champions League mid-week.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

If Ayto is appointed, he will be tasked with maintaining Brighton’s ability to find and develop undervalued talent, manage important outgoing transfers, and keep the club competitive in both domestic and European ambitions. His experience at Arsenal, especially working close to player recruitment and youth development, will be key as Brighton continue to push for a top-half finish. Brighton’s immediate focus will be their clash against Tottenham next Saturday, a match that could see them close the gap to the teams above and move higher up the table.