Brighton remain in discussions with Chelsea, as the Blues look set to raise the stakes in the coming days. So far, Chelsea have reportedly offered £75 million plus add-ons, but Brighton are holding firm in their £100 million valuation for the Ecuador international.
Personal terms are said to have been agreed, but the two clubs are not currently aligned on the final price or the structure of the payment. Chelsea are keen to strengthen their midfield, and their new boss Mauricio Pochettino has prioritized Caicedo as he looks to rebuild his midfield following the exits of Mason Mount to Manchester United, Rueben Loftus Cheek to AC Milan, Mateo Kova?i? to Manchester City, and N'Golo Kante to Saudi Arabia.
They also lost Jorginho to Arsenal in the previous window. Arsenal were also in the chase to sign Caicedo, and they had a £70 million offer rejected by the Seagulls last January. The Gunners have since turned their full focus to landing Declan Rice from West Ham for £105 million, while Manchester United, who were also keen, are now seeking a striker following the acquisition of Mount from Chelsea.
That leaves Liverpool as the main rival to Chelsea for Caicedo. The Reds alreadycaptured Brighton's World Cup winner Alexis MacAllister for £35 million earlier this window. They were said to be interested in reuniting Caicedo, 21, with Mac Allister at Anfield next season. The South American pair formed an excellent partnership in Brighton's midfield last season and helped them to a record sixth place finish and Europa League qualification.
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is also in need of reinforcements in the central areas, as experienced duo Jordan Henderson and Fabinho could be heading to Saudi Arabia this summer.
The promising Ecuadorian midfielder has been a revelation this year. He has become an integral part of the Brighton team since joining the English top flight.
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