Brighton has promptly rejected Chelsea's £70m bid for Moises Caicedo.
According to We News, a source has revealed that Brighton considers Caicedo's value similar to Arsenal's record-signing Declan Rice and is aiming to secure around £100m for him.
Chelsea are currently contemplating whether to submit a renewed offer for the midfielder as talks between the two clubs continue. According to our sources, Chelsea will proceed in a restrained manner and are exploring other players as well.
Chelsea are reportedly receiving positive signals regarding their chances of securing the 21-year-old's services, provided that an agreement can be reached with the player's current club. It is believed that personal terms are unlikely to pose an obstacle in this potential deal.
Chelsea showed interest in signing the Ecuadorian international during January, although Arsenal had their two offers turned down. Eventually, Caicedo agreed to a new contract with Brighton after the closure of the winter transfer window.
On July 22nd, Chelsea will come up against Brighton in the USA Summer Series, to be held in Philadelphia.
Analysis: From tearful teen to in-demand star
In the aftermath of his nation's elimination from the World Cup last year, while other players were indulging in luxurious vacations at upscale resorts, Moises Caicedo chose a different path. The talented youngster returned to his hometown of Santa Domingo, Ecuador and participated in a local tournament on the familiar dusty pitch he had played on since childhood.A video went viral within the country, showcasing Caicedo's exceptional skills as he found the back of the net once again. However, this time, he was playing as a guest player for Caicedos FC, a team comprised of his relatives. It was a remarkable sight to witness, considering that Caicedo was already making a name for himself in the highly competitive Premier League and had recently become Ecuador's youngest goal scorer in the World Cup.
Caicedos FC emerged victorious in the tournament, thanks to a well-placed goal by Moises at the near post amidst a shabby setting. The victory was marked by his energetic celebration, which included a jubilant leap, a triumphant fist pump, and a show of appreciation towards the small crowd of spectators perched or leaning against the fences encircling the field.
With a smile, Miguel Angel Ramirez, Moises' former coach at his childhood club Independiente del Valle, introduces him as "Moises." He goes on to emphasize how Moises never fails to return to his village, his family, and his friends, avidly engaging in football and providing assistance to everyone there. His unwavering loyalty to his roots is evident in his actions.
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Which players will be changing clubs this summer as the transfer window opens in England on June 14 and closes at 11pm on September 1, while in Scotland it closes at midnight?Stay informed about the latest transfer news and rumors by following our dedicated Transfer Centre blog on We' digital platforms. Additionally, you can catch up on the arrivals, departures, and expert analysis by visiting We News.