According to a report by Football London on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Chelsea have been urged to prioritise Brighton midfielder Chema Andres over Yasin Ayari as head coach Xabi Alonso looks to reinforce his squad ahead of the January transfer window.

Chelsea are reportedly competing with Galatasaray for Ayari's signature, with uncertainty surrounding the midfielder's future at Brighton attracting interest from several clubs. The Sweden international has been an important member of Fabian Hurzeler's side this season, scoring two goals as Brighton have registered 23 Premier League goals, six more than Chelsea.

Ayari's current contract is due to expire next summer, although Brighton have the option to extend it for another year. Negotiations over a new long-term agreement are reportedly ongoing, but the lack of significant progress could provide Chelsea with an opportunity to sign the midfielder.

However, the Blues have been advised to concentrate on strengthening their central midfield instead of pursuing another attacking player. Alonso's preferred 3-4-2-1 formation already offers several options in advanced positions, including Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, Joao Pedro and Estevao Willian.

Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott has also been linked with a potential move to Stamford Bridge. Nevertheless, Andres has emerged as an attractive alternative because of his physical presence and ability to provide defensive protection in midfield.

The 21-year-old Spaniard joined Brighton from Stuttgart during the summer and could form an effective partnership with Moises Caicedo by offering additional security in front of the defence. Standing at 6ft 4in, Andres possesses the physical strength to compete against opposition midfielders, with his playing style reportedly drawing comparisons to former Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic.

According to statistics from Sofascore, Andres has averaged 1.8 tackles and 0.8 interceptions per 90 minutes this season. Ayari, meanwhile, has recorded averages of 0.5 tackles and 0.3 interceptions per 90 minutes. Andres has also won an average of 2.3 ground duels per game, compared with Ayari's 1.8.

Beyond his defensive contributions, Andres has managed one goal and one assist, demonstrating his ability to support attacking moves while fulfilling his midfield responsibilities.

Alonso's previous relationship with the young midfielder could also play a role in Chelsea's reported interest. Andres joined Real Madrid's academy in 2018, aged 13, and was coached by Alonso at Under-14 level.

Speaking to AS about their time together in training, Andres praised Alonso's remarkable passing ability and dedication to improving his technique.

“When training sessions finished, he would stay behind practising passes to the goalkeepers or long balls that went straight to their feet; it was spectacular,” Andres said.

He added: “He would have us practise with him, but of course, there was no comparison between his passes and ours.”