Chelsea are set to open talks with Brighton and Hove Albion for the signing of Moises Caicedo, as per Fabrizio Romano.
The Blues are carrying out a squad revamp after an abysmal season in the Premier League. New manager, Mauricio Pochettino is keen on adding reliable replacements to help the Blues push for the top four next season.
The Ecuadorian international has emerged as one of the best holding midfielders in the Premier League since making his debut in 2021. His tremendous performance for the Seagulls last season helped them qualify for the Europa League for the first time in their history.
The 21-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to Chelsea over the past months. Romano says that matching personal terms won’t be an issue but negotiations with Brighton won’t be easy.
Brighton values the Ecuadorian above £80m after previously rejecting a £60m bid from Arsenal in January.
Moises Caicedo to Chelsea – Perfect replacement for Ngolo Kante?
Chelsea have made Caicedo their top summer midfield target to replace N’Golo Kante who has moved to Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Arabian League.
EXCLUSIVE: Chelsea are set to open talks with Brighton for Moisés Caicedo as negotiations between clubs starting within 24/48h. 🚨🔵🇪🇨 #CFC
Personal terms, not as issue — now Chelsea prepared to ‘attack’ the deal.
Never easy or fast negotiations with Brighton. Chelsea, on it. pic.twitter.com/7v9cPjVYyS
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 28, 2023
Caicedo proclaimed his admiration for Kante when he first moved to Brighton in 2021. After a meteoric rise to prominence on the South Coast, Caicedo is ready to step into Kante’s big boots at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues are optimistic about securing an agreement with Brighton for the defensive midfielder. Chelsea’s Boss, Pochettino will be hoping to form a formidable midfield partnership between Enzo Fernandez and Caicedo in a bid to secure European football next season.
