Brighton Stands Firm Against Chelsea’s £80M Offer

According to sources, Chelsea’s last £80 million offer for midfielder Moises Caicedo was turned down by Brighton.

This month’s prior reports stated that Brighton had turned down the Blues’ £70 million bid for the Ecuadorian international.

According to Italian football journalist Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea’s second offer was rejected right away. Although talks are underway, the two teams have not yet reached a deal.

Brighton promised Caicedo, who agreed to a new four years contract that, he would be allowed to leave if they got a bid, as Arsenal did in January.

A re-evaluation of Caicedo’s value has been triggered by the £105 million transfer of fellow midfielder Declan Rice from West Ham to Arsenal.

Caicedo, eager to transfer to Stamford Bridge and close to finalizing personal details, is now asking for around £100 million.

Last week, the Seagulls manager Roberto De Zerbi acknowledged that he was hoping the 21-year-old would be in his team at the start of the upcoming season, but he also acknowledged that the club was prepared for life without him.

In a press conference, he stated, “We need to wait and see what happens with Caicedo. Then we can see what to do.” Before his team’s loss to Chelsea in the preseason, De Zerbi remarked, “I haven’t spoken with him yet, but of course I’d like him to stay.”

“If he does leave, we need to buy another great player with the same characteristics and qualities. They are difficult to find. He’s here, he’s trained for three days. But he needs time to condition. Right now, there is a possibility he can leave this window.”

De Zerbi was asked about his worth, but he declined to comment. However, De Zerbi mentioned that it would be incredibly challenging to find a replacement for him. De Zerbi expressed confidence in his ability to handle the situation if he decides to stay, as he’s considered a great guy. He also noted that the market isn’t closed yet, so there’s a need to wait.

He stated in addition, “At the moment, I have not received news that Caicedo can leave tomorrow or in the next week. I start next season with Caicedo in my head in the first eleven for sure.”