Chelsea are nearing the completion of a deal to sign Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo, as reported by the Guardian.
Following more than a month of pursuit for the 21-year-old midfielder, Chelsea aims to finalize the agreement before the upcoming weekend.
Brighton are insisting on a minimum fee of £100 million and are resolute in not considering a lower offer.
Ecuadorian midfielder Caicedo has been the prime target for Chelsea in this transfer window, addressing the Blues’ pressing need for a holding midfielder.
This requirement has persisted over the past few years, with previous managerial attempts to secure suitable candidates proving unsuccessful.
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Brighton’s acquisition of Caicedo from Independiente del Valle for £4.5 million in 2021 is set to yield substantial profit. Initially loaned to Beerschot, he was later recalled by Brighton after six months.
His emergence under Graham Potter towards the end of the 2021/22 season marked a turning point. His progress continued under the guidance of both Potter and Roberto De Zerbi, impressing in his role as a holding midfielder and displaying versatility by occasionally deputizing as a right-back.
Caicedo has expressed a desire to transfer to Chelsea and conveyed this intention to Brighton. However, the Seagulls are holding out for a substantial sum.
During Brighton’s friendly against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, the midfielder was not available. The club attributed his absence to a hamstring issue, yet many speculate that he may be attempting to push for a move.
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His non-attendance at training on Monday suggests that a move to Stamford Bridge may now be imminent.
Chelsea are also engaged in negotiations for Leeds United midfielder Tyler Adams, who could likely step in as a replacement for Caicedo.
