Moises Caicedo: Brighton Appear to Concede to Losing Chelsea Target With De Zerbi’s Comment

• Chelsea have had four bids of up to £80m rejected for Brighton midfielder, Moises Caicedo
• The South Coast club wants £100m, similar to what Arsenal paid for Declan Rice
• The Ecuadorian missed the pre-season draw against Rayo Vallecano amid reports that he asked to leave

There appears to be some softness in the tone of the words of Brighton manager, Roberto De Zerbi on wantaway midfielder Moises Caicedo's future amidst interest from Chelsea.

Arsenal failed in their pursuit of Caicedo in January after seeing two bids of up to £70m rejected despite the player's public plea to leave. The Gunners instead signed Jorginho from Chelsea and Declan Rice early this summer.

Chelsea have emerged as the only candidate for the player's signature this summer but have had four bids of up to £80m rejected by Brighton, as reported by The Athletic.

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De Zerbi: Caicedo departure hint

Brighton played their final pre-season game against Rayo Vallecano, but Caicedo was missing, reportedly due to a tight hamstring and to allow him to prepare for the season opener against Luton Town.

It all appears to be a usual gimmick from the club over players who are set to leave, as the Ecuadorian has informed the club of his desire to move to Stamford Bridge this summer, and head coach De Zerbi could not provide a straight answer on the player.

“I don’t know,” he told Sky Sports when asked if Caicedo would be in training tomorrow.

“If Moises leaves, we will find another important player. If he stays, I will be happy for us, the team, and the club. But it’s not my problem now.”

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According to multiple reports in the English media, the Blues are preparing a fifth bid worth around £90m, for which the deal is expected to be closed.

Cucurella taps up Caicedo

Sports Brief reported on Marc Cucurella tapping up Caicedo as speculation over a move to Stamford Bridge grows around his former teammate.

The Spaniard hailed the tireless midfielder as an exciting player who he thinks wants to come to Chelsea. Head coach, Mauricio Pochettino declined when asked to comment.