Chelsea are considering an approach to Brighton for midfielder Moises Caicedo as they struggle to fill the void left by N’Golo Kante’s injury.
After failing in a bid to prise Enzo Fernandez from Benfica, the Blues are revisiting other names on their wishlist.
However, Brighton will not sell Caicedo cheaply.
Chelsea are considering an approach for Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo© Provided by Daily Mail
Caicedo impressed while on international duty with Ecuador at the 2022 World Cup, as well as during the Seagulls’ stellar start to the current campaign.
The 21-year-old, who joined Brighton in February 2021, has three years left on his contract at the Amex.
Brighton have previously suggested they had no plans to sell, although a high price would likely encourage them to let Caicedo leave.
Back in September, Brighton boss Graham Potter said £42m might get Caicedo’s boots – but he’s now taken charge of Chelsea.
Chelsea are hoping to strengthen their midfield amid the continue absence of N’Golo Kante ©
Brighton chief executive Paul Barber said last week that the Seagulls are yet to receive an offer for Caicedo, amid interest from Chelsea and Liverpool.
Chelsea are seeking to strengthen in midfield, with the Blues having been hampered by the long-term injury sustained by Kante.
The French star has now played since October after sustaining a hamstring injury, with the expectancy he will return at the end of February or the start of March.
Despite the injury, Chelsea are in talks with Kante over extending his contract beyond the end of this season.
Boss Graham Potter is eager to reinforce his squad during the January transfer window© Provided by Daily Mail
The Blues are expected to lose Jorginho in the summer, with the Italian’s contract running down.
Chelsea have turned towards Caicedo after Benfica boss Roger Schmidt declared their pursuit of Fernandez to be ‘closed’.
The £112million-rated wonderkid had played a starring role in Argentina’s World Cup success in Qatar.
Chelsea also retain an interest in Real Madrid youngster Rafa Marin, although expect a deal will be difficult to achieve.
Borussia Monchengladbach forward Marcus Thuram is also coveted, along with additional reinforcement at right back.
The 2-1 defeat to Fulham on Thursday keeps Chelsea 10th in the Premier League, with the result increasing pressure on under-fire manager Potter.
Source: dailymail
