Chelsea twist: Arsenal new role revealed in Caicedo chase – sources
Brighton will monitor Declan Rice’s final sale price as they prepare to maximise their return in Moises Caicedo’s potential move to Chelsea, sources have told Football Insider.
Football Insider revealed on Monday (19 June) that the Blues are ready to submit a formal offer for the 21-year-old this week – with the Londoners already reaching a “verbal understanding” with the midfielder over personal terms.
Arsenal had also been interested in the Brighton star, but have cooled their interest as they look to press on with a deal for West Ham’s Rice.
It is believed the Seagulls will demand a fee of between £80-85million for Caicedo – but will keep a keen eye on Rice and his move to the Emirates Stadium.
If West Ham receive their full asking price for their captain – it could prompt Brighton to hold out for a higher fee for a player who signed a fresh four-year contract just months ago.
A well-placed source has told Football Insider that Chelsea are unlikely to have to match the British-record outlay (£106.8million) they spent on Enzo Fernandez in order to land Caicedo.
The Ecuador international made 43 appearances in all competitions in the 2022-23 campaign, notching one goal and one assist.
He shone in his first full season in English football having spent the first half of the 2021-22 season on loan at Belgian side Beerschot.
Caicedo quadrupled his wage with his latest contract extension – but still only earns a reported £60,000-a-week at the Amex Stadium.
Chelsea are pressing ahead with further deals as Mauricio Pochettino prepares for his first season at Stamford Bridge.
Football Insider revealed on Monday (19 June) that the Blues’ swoop for Villareal striker Nicolas Jackson is “90% done” after agreeing personal terms with the player.
In other news, Arsenal now strong favourites to sign Chelsea star.