Liverpool have received the biggest shock of this transfer window as Moises Caicedo has not agreed to personal terms as his heart is still set on a move to Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea’s aspirations of securing the South American’s signature remain viable, even though Liverpool have had their groundbreaking proposal accepted by Brighton & Hove Albion.
While Liverpool’s staggering £110 million bid surpassed their counterpart’s £100 million offer, the Blues still have a chance to secure Caicedo despite falling behind in the race due to Liverpool’s higher bid.
The plan of reuniting Alexis Mac Allister and Caicedo at Anfield under Liverpool’s banner has fallen apart, with the 21-year-old having doubts about moving to Merseyside, as reported by Fabrizio Romano.
Currently, Caicedo and his associates are present in London, awaiting Chelsea’s response. The highly-regarded midfielder had already pledged his commitment to Stamford Bridge through a verbal agreement established more than a month ago.
EXCLUSIVE: Moisés Caicedo has just informed Liverpool that he only wants to join Chelsea! 🚨🔵🇪🇨 #CFC
Caicedo has decided to keep his word and only accept Chelsea as personal terms were agreed since end of May.
Chelsea, set to bid again in order to get deal done with Brighton. pic.twitter.com/HI3geVVq9Z
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 11, 2023
Recent information suggests that the Blues have contacted the player’s representatives to request additional time for resolving the ongoing transfer standoff.
Despite Liverpool managing to disrupt Mauricio Pochettino’s interest in the former Independiente del Valle prodigy, the player hasn’t proceeded to Anfield for his medical examination, which is scheduled for Friday.
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Liverpool’s unexpected and extravagant bid for Caicedo took everyone by surprise, particularly since Jurgen Klopp had been primarily considering Southampton’s Romeo Lavia as an ideal midfield addition throughout the summer.
However, the tables have turned, and Chelsea now stands as the primary contender to secure the young player’s signature.
Chelsea’s confidence has been boosted by Liverpool’s repeated failed offers and they’ve recently presented a €48 million bid.
Unlike Caicedo, who seems determined to move to Chelsea, Lavia hasn’t yet revealed his desire, leaving both possibilities open.
Should Liverpool encounter difficulties in finalising personal terms with Caicedo, they might rekindle their pursuit of the former Manchester City youth player, as Klopp is faced with the need to address the shortage of midfield options.
