As reported by the Guardian, Chelsea are preparing to initiate negotiations with Brighton to secure the signing of Moises Caicedo within the next 24 hours.
The Seagulls have accepted the prospect of losing the midfielder and have set an asking price of £80 million for the Ecuadorian international.
During the transfer window, Chelsea have primarily focused on offloading players, with the departures of Mateo Kovacic, Edouard Mendy, and Kalidou Koulibaly.
These player sales have helped balance the club’s significant expenditure of £600 million in the past two windows. However, the club is now shifting its attention to potential new signings.
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Mauricio Pochettino has identified the central midfield position as a top priority for strengthening the team. The club will intensify talks with Brighton over the next two days in their pursuit of Caicedo.
Chelsea are determined to push negotiations forward and seeks a quick resolution to secure Caicedo’s services. Brighton expects the Blues to meet their asking price of £80 million for the midfielder.
The West Londoners already reached a preliminary agreement on personal terms with the defensive midfielder’s representatives, indicating that a significant salary increase awaits the player if he joins Stamford Bridge.
In addition, Chelsea have turned down three offers from Manchester United for Mason Mount, underlining their desire to keep hold of the talented midfielder.
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United have decided not to increase its previous bid of £55 million for Mount and are now exploring alternative options. Interestingly, Caicedo is among the names being considered by the Red Devils.
Although United’s bid for Mount falls short, they would be willing to spend more on Caicedo, considering his younger age and the fact that he has three years remaining on his contract with Brighton.
