Manager Graham Potter faces an inquest from Brighton at the end of the season, even if he succeeds in keeping the club in the Premier League for a fourth season.
Owner Tony Bloom is understood to feel Potter, 45, has underperformed over this campaign, given the amount of money he has invested in the squad.
Brighton are now in a relegation battle, although last weekend's comprehensive win over Newcastle bolstered their survival prospects.
Bloom showed his ruthless side when sacking Chris Hughton the day after the season finished two years ago.