Chelsea has shifted its focus from Manuel Ugarte of Sporting CP to Moises Caicedo of Brighton. The Blues, previously in the lead to secure Ugarte’s signature over Paris Saint-Germain, decided to step away from negotiations when the French club presented a more lucrative wage package.
Both Chelsea and PSG had agreed to pay Ugarte’s £52 million release clause, but PSG’s higher salary offer prompted Chelsea to back away from talks. As a result, Chelsea is now targeting a deal to secure the services of Moises Caicedo ahead of competition from Arsenal and Liverpool.
Brighton’s standout midfielder, Caicedo, has garnered attention as one of the Premier League’s finest. With a potential price tag exceeding £80 million, Arsenal and Liverpool are reportedly interested in the 21-year-old Ecuadorian international. While Arsenal’s primary focus is on securing their top target, Declan Rice, they might consider pursuing Caicedo again this summer.
Chelsea, however, remains optimistic about reaching an agreement with Brighton for Caicedo and has reportedly discussed a potential move during talks over Levi Colwill. The Blues rejected a £30 million bid from Brighton for the 20-year-old central defender last week, affirming their stance that Colwill is not for sale.
Despite his impressive loan spell at Brighton, Colwill is believed to be in new head coach Mauricio Pochettino’s plans at Stamford Bridge. Brighton, on the other hand, is keen on retaining Colwill at the Amex Stadium this season, which could influence negotiations regarding Caicedo.
