Chelsea are reportedly locked in talks with Brighton to sign Moises Caicedo, although the two clubs are far apart in their valuation.
On his YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano insisted that Chelsea and Brighton are continuing discussions for Moises Caicedo. The two clubs are far apart in their valuations of the 21-year-old midfielder, which could also open the doors for rivals to enter the race.
So far, Chelsea have had a clear path in the chase for Moises Caicedo. There have been rumblings about other clubs keeping close tabs on the 21-year-old’s situation, but the Blues remain favourites for the Brighton star.
Contrary to reports that Caicedo agreed with Roberto De Zerbi about leaving this summer, the Brighton boss clarified the situation. He insisted there’s no such understanding between him and the midfielder, indicating that a swap deal with Levi Colwill could also become a consideration.
Chelsea have already seen their latest offer for Caicedo rejected by Brighton. They sent a proposal worth £70 million, reminiscent of Arsenal’s offer back in January. The Seagulls have reportedly benchmarked the Declan Rice deal as a precursor for the Ecuadorian to demand over £100 million.
◉ Chelsea remain locked in talks for Moisés Caicedo.
◉ PSG encouraging bids from PL for Mbappé, nothing concrete as of now.
◉ Saudi clubs prepared to offer crazy money to Kylian, but well aware on Real Madrid priority.
🎥 More: https://t.co/usNtCJbnvs
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 22, 2023
Chelsea have been far off from that valuation as they continue to hold talks with Brighton to find an agreement. The idea of Caicedo staying put at the club was also discussed internally; De Zerbi mentioned such a scenario remains possible. As per reports, a new offer could also come in from the Blues, which might test Brighton’s resolve.
As Chelsea might prepare a new bid, rivals could take advantage of these delays in this deal. Caicedo has no shortage of suitors, with Arsenal reportedly still keen to sign him. After exhausting most of their transfer budget, they may need to offset purchases through sales.
Meanwhile, there has also been a mention of Liverpool looking at Caicedo as a potential option. Among all teams, the Merseysiders are in dire need of midfielders, and Caicedo could well become a replacement option for Fabinho.
The Reds have made solid purchases in this window without significant sales. That could put them in a tricky position for a player like Caicedo and his going rate. Chelsea may still have the upper hand, but they must capitalise on this opportunity before rivals enter this race.
