Football News: Chelsea steps up Moises Caicedo pursuit?

Chelsea are said to be intensifying their pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo.

The Ecuador international is ready to leave Brighton six months after Arsenal failed in their bid to sign him.

Brighton rejected two bids from Arsenal for Caicedo, who attempted to force the move by announcing his wish to go on social media.

The Seagulls maintained their stand and later agreed to a new contract with Caicedo through the summer of 2027.

Brighton now have a solid negotiation position, despite interest from Chelsea and Manchester United.

According to a recent rumour, Chelsea is preparing a proposal, and Manchester United is also planning a formal approach.

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Blues are ready to increase their interest in the 21-year-old and "attack" a deal for him.

Caicedo is eager to finalise his move to Stamford Bridge, allowing Chelsea to hold talks with Brighton about a possible deal.

Despite past speculation linking Manchester United with a move for the midfielder, the Red Devils have never formally entered the contest.

Caicedo was a key member of the Brighton team that reached the FA Cup semi-finals and finished sixth last season.

During the 2022-23 season, he appeared in 43 games across all competitions, scoring one goal and assisting on another.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are trying to sign Caicedo as part of Mauricio Pochettino's midfield overhaul.

N'Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic, two midfielders sold by Chelsea, have joined Al-Ittihad and Manchester City, respectively.

Mason Mount, an academy product, is poised to leave for Manchester United after the two clubs reached an agreement on a £60 million move.

Conor Gallagher has also been linked with a transfer away from Chelsea, with Borussia Dortmund and Tottenham Hotspur both interested, while Ruben Loftus-Cheek is expected to join AC Milan.

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