Chelsea’s attempt to sign Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo has encountered an obstacle. The Seagulls are insisting on including Levi Colwill in the deal, as reported by the Guardian.
Last week, Chelsea’s initial offer of £70 million was turned down by Brighton, indicating their reluctance to let go of Caicedo easily.
The situation seems to be getting complicated for the two-time Champions League winners as they try to secure the midfielder’s services.
Chelsea’s manager, Mauricio Pochettino, is keen on signing one or two defensive midfielders this summer, with Caicedo being one of his targets.
Brighton’s insistence on including Levi Colwill in the deal comes as no surprise to Chelsea, as they had previously demanded Colwill’s inclusion in the £57 million purchase of Marc Cucurella.
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This demand had initially stalled negotiations, but they eventually reached an agreement for a one-year loan deal. Colwill impressed during his loan spell, and Brighton now wants him back at the club.
Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi is eager to have both Caicedo and Colwill in his squad for the upcoming season. He even made a playful remark, suggesting that Brighton could offer European football, unlike Chelsea.
However, Chelsea are reluctant to part ways with the defender, as they consider him a crucial member of their team.
Pochettino is a huge admirer of the English star, particularly highlighting his potential as one of the greatest defenders in English history.
Brighton have turned down bids for Colwill from Chelsea and are determined to keep him at the club beyond his current contract, which runs until 2025.
The Blues are facing defensive shortages due to injuries to Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile, while Kalidou Koulibaly has been sold, and Trevoh Chalobah is attracting interest in the transfer market.
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Despite the imminent signing of Igor Julio from Fiorentina, Brighton remains interested in Colwill.
Chelsea now faces a decision on whether they are willing to part with the promising defender in order to secure Caicedo’s signature.
However, they are reluctant to meet Brighton’s asking price of £100 million for the Ecuadorian midfielder. Nevertheless, the Blues are planning to make a third bid for Caicedo soon.
