According to reports, Chelsea are ‘set to open talks’ with Brighton for midfielder Moises Caicedo, who is also being linked with Arsenal and Man Utd.
Caicedo enjoyed a sensational season for Brighton in 2022/23 as he helped them finish sixth in the Premier League.
The Ecuador international was pursued by Arsenal in January and Mikel Arteta’s side had a couple of bids rejected for him. He has since signed a contract extension but he is still likely to leave Brighton next season.
Arsenal continue to monitor Caicedo but they are prioritising a deal for West Ham standout Declan Rice. Man Utd meanwhile are understood to be considering the Brighton standout as a potential alternative to Mason Mount.
But Caicedo appears to favour a move to Stamford Bridge and he has reportedly already ‘agreed personal terms’ ahead of his move to Chelsea as he’s decided to join Mauricio Pochettino’s revolution.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has now provided an update on Chelsea’s pursuit of Caicedo. He tweeted: “Chelsea are set to open talks with Brighton for Moisés Caicedo as negotiations between clubs starting within 24/48h.
“Personal terms, not as issue — now Chelsea prepared to ‘attack’ the deal. Never easy or fast negotiations with Brighton. Chelsea, on it.”
‘The London giants are in negotiations over a deal worth around £80million and are very keen to make a breakthrough this week.
‘Mauricio Pochettino wants Caicedo “in the building”, sources say, before the start of pre-season training.
‘Talks will continue today as Chelsea look to secure an agreement with Brighton. Caicedo is keen to make the move to Chelsea and has already agreed personal terms with the club.’
Ex-Premier League forward Gabby Agbonlahor thinks Chelsea will need to sign a second new midfielder who can play alongside Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez.
“Enzo Fernandes and Moises Caicedo would be a great pairing despite them both being young,” Agbonlahor told Football Insider.
“I watched Caicedo last season, and especially in the Arsenal game at the Emirates, where played right-back and he was still good, so he could even be used in another position.
“I think if they can add one more midfielder between Caicedo and Fernandez to make a three, they’re going to be a lot better.
“With Chelsea losing both N’Golo Kante and Matteo Kovacic it makes sense to get Caicedo over the line.”
