Chelsea could step up their chase of Moises Caicedo as they could hold fresh talks with Brighton for the £80 million-plus rated midfielder.
According to Daily Mail, Chelsea are keen to set up their interest in Moises Caicedo. The Blues could hold fresh talks with Brighton after the Seagulls rejected a £60 million two weeks ago. The Ecuadorian remains a top priority for Mauricio Pochettino, but they are nowhere close to agreeing on a move.
There have been many rumblings about Moises Caicedo over the past few weeks, with Fabrizio Romano throwing about several tweets updating his situation. Despite a cluster of information available to decipher, it is clear Chelsea are eager to bring the 21-year-old to Stamford Bridge.
Caicedo was always expected to leave Brighton despite signing a new contract with an improved salary at the Amex. He was the subject of intense transfer speculation around January. Chelsea and Arsenal saw bids rejected by the Seagulls, with the Gunners offering around £70 million.
There was a feeling Brighton could accept a similar offer or slightly more at about £75 million. There’s general confusion regarding his valuations. Several reports have insisted on different figures, including £80 million, £100 million and even £120 million.
Hence, it is unclear how much Brighton want, with Chelsea the front-runners as things stand. Arsenal were early favourites as many thought they would rekindle the pursuit of the £80 million-plus rated midfielder. But with the Gunners opting to prioritise Declan Rice, the Blues have a clear path for the Ecuadorian.
Manchester United have also asked to be kept informed on the situation. Arsenal are also somewhere in the race; those two clubs could pose a problem for Chelsea. Hence, it is in the best interest of the West London side to wrap up a deal quickly and ward off their rivals in the pursuit.
David Ornstein recently reported of a £60 million Chelsea bid rejected by Brighton. The Seagulls are holding out for more. The Blues are struggling with FFP regulations as they have yet to launch another concrete bid.
Yet, the reports in the media are flush, with the latest one suggesting Chelsea could hold fresh talks with Brighton to finalise a move. It is a difficult prospect for the Blues regarding Caicedo and his ever-increasing valuations.
The consensus is that Chelsea could step up their interest in the midfielder. While they remain front runners for Caicedo, there is still the threat from Arsenal, particularly as reports emerged of a possible exit for Thomas Partey.
If that happens, particularly in Saudi Arabia, Arsenal may have the funds to bid for Caicedo and partner him with potential arrival Rice. Hence, Chelsea must swiftly agree a deal with Brighton, with the player keen on joining the Stamford Bridge outfit as things stand.