Chelsea’s pursuit of Moises Caicedo appears to be entering into hostile territory as an unnamed club from Saudi Arabia have reportedly met with Brighton in order to sign the Ecuadorian.
The Seagulls recently turned down the latest offer from Chelsea for high-rated midfielder Caicedo as it was below the stipulated asking price.
The bid from the Stamford Bridge club was about £75 million, with the inclusion of performance related add-ons of £5 million.
In what looks to be another daring move from Saudi Arabia, it appears they are set to rival Chelsea in the race to secure the services of Moises Caicedo.
Moises Caicedo to Saudi Arabia
Based on reports from Sky sports, the unnamed Saudi Arabian club hasn’t sent in a viable bid for Caicedo but they are discussing with Brighton over the possibility of signing the midfielder.
This potential rivalry concerning the race to sign the Ecuadorian could be a massive blow for Chelsea, due to the gigantic purse they would have to contend with.
Meanwhile, an unnamed club whose location hasn’t been revealed, has been reported to have tabled a bid higher than Chelsea’s last offer for Moises Caicedo.
Brighton are requesting for a fee of around £100 million from any side looking to sign their priced asset.
The Seagulls had initially told Caicedo that he would be allowed to leave the club if an offer similar to what they got from Arsenal in January is tabled.
However, due to the Gunners signing Declan Rice for £105 million from West Ham United, they have been focused on reevaluating the midfielder’s valuation.
Robert Der Zerbi’s side have reportedly slammed a price tag similar to what Arsenal paid for Rice on Caicedo.
The 21-year-old made 43 appearances for Brighton last season, scoring 1 goal and providing 1 assist across all competitions.
He was a standout performer for Der Zerbi’s side during the 2022/23 season, helping the Seagulls to a 6th-placed finish in the Premier League.
His immense contributions last season had a massive effect in Brighton qualifying for the UEFA Europa League for the first time in the club’s history.
Moises Caicedo, who won Brighton’s Player’s Player of the Season Award last term is reportedly keen on a move away from the Amex Stadium.
Moises Caicedo is happy at Brighton and Hove Albion
However, in front of an electric audience present while he was handed the Player’s Player award, Caicedo expressed that he was happy at the club.
He said: “I am so happy to reach the Europa League with Brighton, the team who opened the door for me in the Premier League, it was so good. Why not give my best for this amazing club?”
The Ecuador International joined Brighton on February 1, 2021 from Independiente for a fee of €5 million.
Moises Caicedo had initially displayed his rage over the actions of the Seagulls in not selling him to Arsenal in January, 2023 when the North London side tabled a bid of £70 million to secure his services.
The offer was rejected by Brighton and Caicedo was told to stay away from training for a few days.
After the drama was resolved, the 21-year-old afterwards signed a four-year deal with the English club.
Moises Caicedo has also been linked with several clubs this summer, including; Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal.
