Man United contact Moises Caicedo representatives as Chelsea face £80m transfer problem
Manchester United is reportedly emerging as a potential competitor to Chelsea in the pursuit of Moises Caicedo, as talks for a deal to sign Mason Mount have hit a roadblock. CBS Sports suggests that an initial fee of £80 million, with an additional £10 million in add-ons, is a possible figure for Caicedo's transfer. Those close to Caicedo insist that his valuation should not exceed the £86 million that Real Madrid paid for Aurelien Tchouameni last summer.
According to The Times, Chelsea has informed Brighton that they are not willing to match Caicedo's £80 million price tag. This development has seemingly prompted Manchester United to reach out to the Ecuadorian midfielder's representatives, as they shift their focus to alternative targets due to the stalled talks for Mason Mount, as reported by The Athletic.
Erik ten Hag, Chelsea's prospective manager, had prioritized the acquisition of Mount, with expectations that the English international would depart Stamford Bridge as he enters the final year of his current contract. Manchester United had submitted a £55 million bid for the 24-year-old, which was rejected by Chelsea, and they are unwilling to increase their offer to meet the Blues' demand of £65 million.
Chelsea's decision not to match Caicedo's valuation may complicate a potential deal for the Ecuadorian. Caicedo himself has expressed his desire to play for Manchester United, considering it a dream. In 2020, he stated, "My dream is to play for Manchester United. Antonio Valencia is an example to follow. With his strength and dedication, he was able to get to that level. That motivates me to keep working hard and do the right things."
If Chelsea wishes to secure a transfer for Caicedo this summer, they may need to act swiftly, as Manchester United has firmly entered the race for the 21-year-old midfielder. Mauricio Pochettino, United's manager, has already missed out on signing Manuel Ugarte, and he would not want to miss another midfield target.
In conclusion, Manchester United's interest in Moises Caicedo and the impasse in negotiations for Mason Mount have potentially disrupted Chelsea's transfer plans. The competition from United could complicate matters, and it remains to be seen how both clubs proceed in their pursuit of their respective targets.
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