Chelsea have been urged to prioritise Brighton midfielder Chema Andres over Yasin Ayari as head coach Xabi Alonso looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the January transfer window.

According to a report by Football London on Thursday, 22 October 2026, the Blues have joined Galatasaray in the race to sign Ayari, whose contract situation at Brighton has attracted interest from potential suitors.

The Sweden international has played an important role in Fabian Hurzeler's side this season. Brighton have scored 23 Premier League goals, six more than Chelsea, while Ayari has contributed two goals.

His contract is due to expire next summer, although Brighton have the option to extend it by another year. Negotiations over a long-term extension are reportedly ongoing but have stalled, potentially creating an opportunity for Chelsea.

However, the report argues that Chelsea should focus on strengthening their central midfield rather than adding another attacking option.

Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, Joao Pedro and Estevao Willian can all operate in advanced roles in Alonso's 3-4-2-1 formation.

Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott has also been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, but Chema Andres has emerged as another potential target.

The 21-year-old Spaniard joined Brighton from Stuttgart this summer and could offer the defensive qualities Chelsea need alongside Moises Caicedo.

Standing at 6ft 4in, Andres possesses the physical presence to shield the defence, with his playing profile drawing comparisons to former Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic.

Premier League statistics cited by Sofascore show that Andres has averaged 1.8 tackles and 0.8 interceptions per 90 minutes this season, compared with Ayari's 0.5 tackles and 0.3 interceptions. He has also won 2.3 ground duels per game, against Ayari's 1.8.

Andres has recorded one goal and one assist, suggesting he can contribute in attack while offering greater defensive protection.

His previous relationship with Alonso could further strengthen Chelsea's interest. Andres joined Real Madrid's academy in 2018, aged 13, where Alonso coached him at Under-14 level.

Speaking to AS, Andres recalled Alonso's passing ability during their training sessions.

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