The Seagulls have secured a technically gifted anchor to fill the void left by Carlos Baleba, investing €22 million in Stuttgart’s press-resistant midfield maestro to bolster their transition.
Brighton and Hove Albion are set to complete a move for former Real Madrid starlet and Stuttgart midfielder Chema Andres.
What is the deal? Where does he play?
The Spanish midfielder will complete a move for a fee in the region of €22 million, according to Fabrizio Romano. A pretty staggering fee!
Upon some research, he isn't quite at his full potential yet, but he is a very exciting young player. Technically wonderful, press-resistant, and has a strong passing ability.
Andres tends to dictate the tempo of the game. To be honest, he looks a lot like Rodri when on the ball... but to a much lower level at this stage.
The reality is, Albion have struggled to find an out-and-out number six or 'anchor' for their midfield. It has taken a while to find someone who could be viewed as a possible replacement for Carlos Baleba.
As the clock was ticking down today, many fans doubted whether there would even be a midfielder signing today!
How good could Andres be?
Andres is an exciting young signing. Having the footballing IQ at his age is exciting, as he creates space, tackles well, and times his positioning excellently. The sign of a top-quality player is always easily judged by how well they create space in midfield!
An all-round anchor, he could become one of the brightest young prospects in the league, having been let go by Real Madrid after progressing through their academy. This deal means that Madrid will no longer have control over the player, as they initially had a buy-back option from Stuttgart.
He doesn't come without his limitations, but these could be ironed out.
His pace is non-negotiable, and while he isn't ridiculously slow, he isn't the most agile by any means.
One of the biggest criticisms of Fabian Hürzeler's style is that his side is weak in transition. The Seagulls' midfield was heavily exposed against Chelsea, but we knew this could be the case with Carlos Baleba's recent departure to Manchester United for around £70 million.
Other than this, there are not the most noticeable limitations; perhaps his physicality in the short term to step up to Premier League level. As always, the question over Bundesliga signings to the English top flight.
Overall, this could be a very exciting signing for Albion, especially considering the fee. Securing both Femi Azeez and Chema Andres for below £35 million is something quite incredible. Remarkable business from a Brighton fan's point of view!
