Brighton Wanted Fresh Approach After David Weir Exit – Have They Found It In New Sporting Director?

Brighton allowed technical director David Weir to officially leave the club last week and spoke in their statement about a “freshness” and a new approach.

The Seagulls confirmed they had parted ways with Weir following seven years at the Amex Stadium in what was a surprising call from the club.

Chairman Tony Bloom revealed in his statement how he and the club were seeking “new leadership” from elsewhere as they moved on from Weir.

The 55-year-old former Rangers, Scotland and Everton central defender had been their loans manager before becoming involved in recruitment but a change of personnel was required for Bloom.

He said: “David has served our club very well, but we now wish to refresh our technical area with new leadership and direction.

“I’d like to thank David for everything he has done for us, and to wish him well for the future.”

Jason Ayto joins Brighton as sporting director

It was obviously not a decision taken lightly considering Weir had been tipped to make a real impact within a few years following the decision to make him the replacement for Newcastle United-bound Dan Ashworth.

But now the club have opted to bring in former Norwich City and Arsenal staffer Jason Ayto to become their new sporting director as they look towards the future with their ambitious appointment.

Ayto, 40, was interim sporting director at Arsenal working under Edu at the Emirates and had a hand in some of their big name transfers in recent seasons.

Ayto is believed to have taken point on the efforts to bring Kai Havertz to the North London outfit from Chelsea.

He is also credited with work on Jurrien Timber’s deal to join the Gunners from Ajax.

Who has Jason Ayto signed for Arsenal?

According to the Athletic, Ayto is delighted to be in the position with his new club and his own man in the office following stints at other clubs as either interim or deputy.

He has his experience in data analytics which seriously suits Brighton considering Bloom’s own Jamestown Analytics becoming significantly more prominent in how they do their recruitment.

He oversaw scouting at Arsenal before moving into recruitment coordination but Edu swapped him back and ensured he remained working closely with the Brazilian Invincible legend to learn first-hand on transfers, contracts and relationship building.

Ayto supposedly played a big role in the club being able to broker a deal for Riccardo Calafiori after what was described as difficult talks to sign the Italian.

He was also namechecked by the same publication where a move for Mikel Merino was concerned.

He is young, enthusiastic and ambitious and learned at one of the Premier League’s biggest clubs. One could argue it has all been leading to this.