Arsenal and Chelsea target Moises Caicedo urges Brighton to let him take 'magnificent opportunity'

The 21-year-old published a statement on his Instagram last Friday stating his desire to leave the south coast side. 

He wrote: "I am grateful to Mr. [Tony] Bloom and Brighton for giving me the chance to come to the Premier League and I feel I have always done my best for them. I always play football with a smile and with heart.

"I am the youngest of 10 siblings from a poor upbringing in Santa Domingo in Ecuador. My dream always to be the most decorated player in the history of Ecuador.

"I am proud to be able to bring in a record transfer fee for Brighton which would allow them to reinvest it and help the club continue to be successful.

"The fans have taken me into their hearts and they will always be in my heart so I hope they can understand why I want to take up this magnificent opportunity."

Arsenal, who are looking to strengthen in midfield before Tuesday's deadline day, had a £60m transfer bid rejected by Brighton. The club also turned down a £55m bid from Chelsea eight days prior. Caicedo has made 26 Premier League appearances since arriving from Ecuadorian side Independiente in 2021 for £5m.

The Ecuador international has also scored two goals and is under contract with Brighton until 2025.

Manager Roberto de Zerbi attempted to pour cold water on the potential transfer in Friday's press conference, saying: "He's focused only on Brighton.

"I hope he can stay with us until the end of the season because in my opinion, it's the best solution for him, for us.

"I spoke with him Wednesday and I told him my opinion. I think it's always difficult to change (during) a season. Because you can find problems. For our way, it's important for him to stay another four months with us.

"He is relaxed. He's a good guy. I spoke with him like a father, not like a coach. Because I understand when one player has the possibility to change team and go to a very big team. I understand. My work is to give the style of play, but to give also advice for his career, his life."

Brighton have lost a number of key players in a short period of time following the departures of Marc Cucurella to Chelsea (£60m), Yves Bissouma to Tottenham (£25m) and Neal Maupay to Everton (£15m).

Earlier in the window, Leandro Trossard joined that list following his £21m move to Arsenal. Despite their loss of talent, Brighton remain sixth in the Premier League and could go fifth should they win their two games in hand on Antonio Conte's Tottenham.

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