Chelsea reportedly remain fully focused on signing Moises Caicedo this summer, despite negotiations with Brighton showing no signs of concluding soon. With the start of the Premier League season within touching distance, the Blues are keen to secure the signature of their top target but have also sounded out alternatives.
Mauricio Pochettino is midway through his drastic shake-up at Stamford Bridge. The ex-Tottenham manager has green-lighted numerous major exits since his appointment, allowing the likes of Mason Mount and Mateo Kovacic to leave in order to raise funds.
He has also reduced the size of his squad markedly, with fringe players being allowed to depart and other wantaway stars put firmly in the shop window – such as Hakim Ziyech and Romelu Lukaku. However, the focus is shifting at Chelsea.
New signings are required if the Blues are to bounce back from last season’s disappointment, and another midfielder, at least, is required. With time somewhat running out, Fabrizio Romano reports that Chelsea are insisting on signing Caicedo.
Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise and Ajax’s Mohammed Kudus have been highlighted as versatile alternative targets and they have been shortlisted, though they predominantly play as either a No 10 or on the right wing. However, the duo are both considered in case Caicedo talks collapse entirely. Both players have alternative admirers as well, but Chelsea appear to feel that they can risk a transfer hijack.
They have seen Brighton several bids rejected for the Ecuador international, with their latest bid of £80million being rejected on the spot. The Seagulls are holding out for £100m, having seen Arsenal sign Declan Rice from West Ham for a similar fee. Brighton had insisted on including Levi Colwill in a player-plus-cash deal for Caicedo, but the Under-21 international has since signed a five-year contract extension at Stamford Bridge after being persuaded to stay by Pochettino.