Moises Caicedo remained a Brighton player in the January transfer window despite strong interest from Chelsea and Arsenal
Brighton are not unfamiliar with fellow Premier League clubs attempting to poach their players, but the club once again handled the situation carefully and have been rewarded. The Ecuador international's new deal spans to 2027 and includes a significant pay increase.
In his most recent press conference, ahead of Brighton's clash with Leeds, De Zerbi was asked about his relationship with the former Independiente del Valle star and if the youngster had learned from the situation where he tried to engineer a move away.
"I was honest with him and I told him what was my opinion and my idea," he told reporters, via Sussex Live. "I spoke with him about my vision, but not for my interest or for the club, but for his interest. I spoke like a father because he is young, I have two children who are almost the same age, if I can help my players, that is my work.
"I think he’s a good guy and it can happen to think in a different way. But if you trust in your player, you have to believe in him. You have to give him your opinion and idea to make the right decision.
"For him, it was important to stay at least another six months, I hope another two years. But first, to finish this season with his teammates and clubs, it’s important for him."