AC Milan eye Yasin Ayari as Luka Modric replacement

AC Milan are considering Brighton midfielder Yasin Ayari as a possible replacement for Luka Modric next summer.

The Swedish international has reportedly attracted the Italian club’s attention as Milan prepare for a potential reshaping of their midfield.

Modric, 41, is entering the final year of his contract, and another extension at San Siro appears unlikely, even if he chooses to continue his playing career. Milan could therefore begin searching for a younger player capable of bringing energy, creativity and technical quality to the centre of the pitch.

The futures of Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Ardon Jashari are also uncertain. Loftus-Cheek has been linked with a departure, while Jashari has struggled to secure a regular role since arriving at the club last summer.

Milan have reportedly followed Ayari since early 2025, and the midfielder has since developed into an important part of Fabian Hurzeler’s Brighton side. He scored his first Premier League goal of the season in Brighton’s 5-0 victory over former club Coventry City. Ayari also impressed during pre-season, scoring twice against Roma.

His Brighton contract runs until June 2027, with an option for an additional year. Italian reports value him at approximately €40 million, making any transfer a significant investment for Milan.