Chelsea FC have made Brighton Hove Albion’s midfielder, Moises Caicedo their top priority for this transfer market. Several other top clubs also made attempts to sign the talented midfielder who has been a crucial part of De Zerbi’s team. Caicedo was linked to Liverpool and Arsenal as well earlier this summer. But only Chelsea have remained persistent with their interest in the Ecuadorian.
The Blues recently saw Brighton reject their £80m for Caicedo. It is understandable that there is a big difference in the valuations of both the clubs for the player. Chelsea value Caicedo in a range between £45m-£80m. On the other hand, Brighton value their star man around £100m. Due to this, Chelsea have now also started looking for ‘alternative options’ in case they miss out on Moises.
Which other players are Chelsea considering?
Even though Chelsea have got the finances to make an improved offer for Caicedo, they reportedly have prepared a list of alternatives as well. According to Express UK, Chelsea identify 3-4 players as the potential alternatives for Caicedo.
According to reports, Chelsea have kept an eye on Tyler Adams of Leeds United who they identify as a ‘talented player’. Adams was identified as an option back in January as well. However, at that time the club decided to buy Enzo Fernandez from Benfica. Another alternative is Edson Alvarez, who was on the verge of joining the Blues last summer. Chelsea had made several attempts to sign Alvarez from Ajax for a deal around €50 million but Ajax didn’t let the deal happen then. Maybe now is the time when we might see Alvarez finally play for Chelsea.
Even though Adams and Alvarez are the top alternatives for Caicedo, Chelsea also identify Romeo Lavia as an option. However, a deal with Lavia wouldn’t be simple, as they face serious competition from Liverpool. The Reds have been wanting to sign Lavia for a long time and with the latest departures, their pursue of Lavia will be more serious than ever.
Is Caicedo to Chelsea going to happen?
It is very clear that signing Caicedo for Chelsea is very difficult and complicated. Despite Chelsea’s multiple attempts, Brighton have not been pleased. They have already seen their two bids get rejected. The big difference in club’s valuations for Moises is the major hindrance in this deal. Also by signing a contract extension, Caicedo allowed Brighton to have the higher ground in his transfer deal, which has made his transfer move much more difficult.
Chelsea have got the finances to make an improved offer for Caicedo. They have earned over €250m because of sales this summer. However, with several more signings required by the club, Chelsea could be having second thoughts about spending over €100m on Caicedo.
