According to a report by Football London on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Chelsea have entered the race to sign Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Yasin Ayari, joining Galatasaray among the clubs interested in the Swedish international as uncertainty grows over his future at the Amex Stadium.

The 23-year-old has become an important member of Fabian Hurzeler’s squad, with his performances in midfield attracting attention from several clubs ahead of the forthcoming transfer windows.

Ayari’s existing contract is scheduled to run out at the end of the season. Although Brighton possess an option to extend his agreement by a further year, they have not yet exercised it, despite his representatives reportedly expecting the club to do so.

Talks over a new contract are understood to have started before the summer but have encountered difficulties. As a result, interested clubs are keeping a close watch on the situation, with Chelsea among those assessing the possibility of making an approach to strengthen their midfield.

Chelsea sporting director Paul Winstanley already knows Ayari well from his time at Brighton, where he oversaw the scouting department before departing in November 2022. He was reportedly one of the key figures involved in identifying and pursuing the midfielder and has continued to follow his progress.

The two Premier League clubs have a history of conducting business together, with Marc Cucurella, Moises Caicedo and Joao Pedro among the players who have moved from Brighton to Chelsea in recent seasons. Their recruitment connection has also continued through the recent transfer involving Danny Welbeck.

Despite this established relationship, Chelsea are unlikely to have a clear path to Ayari, as several other Premier League clubs are reportedly interested in his situation. Competition could increase further if additional European sides decide to pursue the midfielder.

Galatasaray are among the most interested parties after previously considering Ayari during the summer transfer window. The Turkish club are expected to continue monitoring the negotiations and could attempt to sign him if Brighton fail to reach an agreement over an improved contract.

The Istanbul club have also been linked with Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes. However, Ayari could offer a younger and less expensive option as they assess their midfield targets.

Interest has also reportedly come from Saudi Pro League clubs, highlighting the growing reputation Ayari has developed through his performances in English football.

The midfielder has provided two assists in Brighton’s first six league fixtures this season and has played a significant role in Hurzeler’s midfield. His technical ability and creativity have helped provide an additional attacking dimension to the team.

Brighton are determined to keep hold of the Swedish international, who has become an important figure in their squad. The club will need their leading players to maintain their current performances if they are to pursue an ambitious challenge for a place in the Premier League’s top four.

However, the uncertainty surrounding Ayari’s contract could complicate those ambitions, particularly if the player begins considering a move elsewhere.

Brighton could protect their position by activating the option to extend his current deal by 12 months, securing his services until the end of next season. Such a move would provide additional time to negotiate fresh terms or assess potential offers.

Even so, Brighton’s next decision will be important, with Chelsea, Galatasaray and other potential suitors continuing to follow developments closely as Ayari’s contractual situation remains unresolved.