Chelsea now preparing raid to sign Premier League star who Winstanley knows well

Chelsea are planning a move for another Brighton & Hove Albion player, as talks have stalled over a contract extension to remain at the American Express Stadium.

Raiding Brighton has become a common occurrence for the Blues, and it is clear to see why, with two of Xabi Alonso‘s most important players making the move from the Seagulls.

Other signings include Marc Cucurella, who joined Real Madrid in the summer, and sporting director Paul Winstanley, who changed his transfer policy in the summer by signing more experienced players, such as Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck.

REUTERS/Tyrone Siu

Speaking about the drastic change, journalist Simon Johnson said: “After years of fairly unswerving focus on youth and potential, executives at Stamford Bridge have thrown themselves into this summer’s drive for experience and maturity, as they seek stabilising presences in the team.

“It is hard to overstate how much of a swing this is away from Chelsea’s previous recruitment strategy.”

Up to this point, the Blues’ new strategy appears to be paying off, as they are sitting fourth in the Premier League table, but a move for an up-and-coming Brighton star is now being plotted.

Chelsea eyeing move for Yasin Ayari

REUTERS/Matthew Childs

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Chelsea are now readying another raid on Brighton, and Yasin Ayari is in their sights, as he is yet to put pen to paper on a contract extension at the American Express Stadium, despite the Seagulls retaining the option to extend his deal by one year.

Talks have now stalled, which could open the door for a move elsewhere, and the Blues have entered the race for the midfielder’s signature, although there could be competition from Turkish giants Galatasaray.

Ayari is a player Winstanley knows well, having identified him as a target for Brighton prior to leaving the club in 2022, and the sporting director is now looking to take him to Stamford Bridge.

Top clubs are now sniffing around to sign the Sweden international, but Bobby Zamora was left shocked that no one attempted to sign him in the summer, saying: “He’s incredible as well, seeing him for the last year-and-a-half up close and in training and how good he is. I’m actually surprised that nobody came in this summer.

“He’s one that sort of goes under the radar, but when you see him work up close and you see him in training, he’s got real, real talent. And again, at such a young age. There’s only really bright things for that kid.”

However, staying at Brighton may have been for the best, as the 23-year-old has remained a key player for Fabian Hurzeler, picking up two goals in six Premier League matches this season.

Not only is the Brighton star a goal threat, but he is also willing to put in the hard yards, covering an average of 11.0km per 90 in the Premier League this season, which is more than the vast majority of Chelsea’s current players.