ALBION have been linked with a move for Ajax right-back Noussair Mazraoui.

The Moroccan defender is a regular of the Dutch giants, having played 16 times in all competitions for the club this season.

The opportunity to sign Mazraoui has arisen due to the player's contract expiring next summer. Ajax seemingly prefers to sell the player in January rather than losing him for nothing at the end of the season.

The Moroccan international has admitted that his future is up in the air, in the Dutch TV show With Andy in the car, hosted by former footballer Andy van der Meijde, the 24-year-old said: "We have to see what happens. The longer it takes [to agree a new deal], the more difficult it becomes.

"I have been with Ajax for 17 years so you understand the feeling – I want to take the next step. It shouldn’t be this season, but it shouldn’t take two years either."

The Morocco international's current contract with the Dutch giants is set to expire next summer, and with no new deal agreed, the feeling around the club is that he could leave on a free transfer.

Albion are one of four Premier League clubs interested in signing the defender, according to Eurosport. The other clubs are Arsenal, Manchester City and Everton.

He would still consider staying at the Estadi Johan Cruyff, if his contract can be sorted out.

Mazraoui said: "I'm open to a new contract, I also said that to Marc [Overmars, sporting director]. I am honest about that."

The defender has enjoyed a fine start to the current season, scoring four goals and assisting three more, as well as helping his side keep 11 clean sheets in all competitions.

To find out how Mazraoui would fit in at Albion the Argus spoke to senior editor at Vavel and football journalist Alan Rzepa.

Alan said: "Noussair is a very interesting player. An attacking fullback with excellent attacking abilities who spends most of the time on the pitch in a sort-of wingback/wide midfield role, often staying high up the pitch or drifting deep into central areas.

"But even with his limited defensive duties, you can see that he is an accomplished defender. Is he better than Lamptey? I can safely that in passing and scoring areas he indeed is. He’s got a lovely eye for goal and his crossing is usually perfect.

"Although, I would be asking a question whether Mazraoui’s style of play suits Albion and what Graham Potter needs. His pace is quite average, and, even though he’s a strong tackler, the physical side of his game isn’t quite what Lamptey can offer.

"It would be for sure a great signing for Albion, even if he was to be Tariq’s back-up or someone utilized as a late attacking substitute.

"But with him being 24, expect to battle some top European sides for his signature."

The Seagulls have already signed one defender from Ajax in recent years, Joel Veltman, and if they are able to snag Mazraoui, it could be another shrewd piece of business by the club.