Chelsea transfer news: Moises Caicedo is pushing for a summer move to the Blues with a direct request now being made to Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi
Chelsea however, are unlikely to reach that mark with their belief that a proposal around £80million will be enough. Talks have continued in recent days with both clubs in the USA for their respective pre-season tours with face-to-face negotiations planned before they play each other this weekend.
Interest was strong in Caicedo during the January transfer window but staying at the club saw him sign a new contract on the south coast. Doing so appeared confusing at first but it was then widely reported that there was a clause in those fresh terms that would help him facilitate a move with the blessing of Roberto De Zerbi and now it looks as though Caicedo is acting on those promises given to him.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Caicedo has directly told De Zerbi and senior members of Brighton's hierarchy that he wants to leave. Chelsea are yet to launch a third bid but one is being prepared and could arrive before the end of the week with talks ongoing.
Chelsea take on Brighton in the Premier League Summer Series on Sunday, July 23 00:00am (BST). Whether Caicedo will be playing in that clash for the Seagulls is unknown but no matter what he does it will certainly be an interesting outcome.
Refusing to play or not being chosen in the squad showcases a transfer to Chelsea could be close, however De Zerbi starting Caicedo can give the Blues further proof he is the midfielder they need which could potentially result in them edging closer to Brighton's valuation, with the green light already given by former team-mate Marc Cucurella.
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