According to a report by Football London on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott remains a leading target for Chelsea ahead of the January transfer window, but Martin Zubimendi could be a more suitable option for manager Xabi Alonso.

Bournemouth are reportedly becoming increasingly open to selling Scott, who has attracted interest from Chelsea for some time. However, Zubimendi could offer the Blues qualities that are currently missing from their midfield.

Chelsea considered signing the Spanish international during the summer transfer window, and reports suggest he could be interested in leaving Arsenal in January if he continues to struggle for regular playing time.

Although Arsenal are unlikely to strengthen a direct title rival during the winter window, Zubimendi could consider moving elsewhere in search of more opportunities if his situation does not improve.

Chelsea's midfield performances have been inconsistent this season. While Moises Caicedo and Jordan Henderson have delivered impressive displays at times, their weaknesses have also become evident in several matches.

During their home encounter against Tottenham, Chelsea managed only 31 per cent possession and eventually suffered a 2-0 defeat.

The situation was similar in their victory over Brighton, when Alonso's side recorded just 26 per cent possession, highlighting their difficulties in controlling matches against teams with strong midfield units.

Zubimendi could help address these problems through his excellent passing range, positional awareness and ability to dictate the tempo of games.

His statistics from last season further demonstrate his influence in midfield. The Spanish midfielder recorded 1,684 completed Premier League passes, outperforming 95.1 per cent of midfielders. He also ranked above 85.2 per cent of players with 373 line-breaking passes.

Former Real Sociedad coach Aitor Zulaika has also praised his passing ability, defensive awareness, forward movement, work rate and capacity to intercept opposition attacks.

Although Romeo Lavia possesses similar qualities, his repeated fitness problems remain a major concern for Chelsea. Scott, meanwhile, is regarded more as an energetic box-to-box midfielder with impressive movement rather than someone who consistently controls possession.

Despite Scott's potential, Chelsea need a midfielder capable of dictating play, maintaining possession and creating attacking opportunities.

Zubimendi could therefore represent a more suitable addition to Alonso's squad, offering the midfield greater control and stability.