Manchester United have suffered a huge blow in their pursuit of signing Moises Caicedo, as Arsenal have made a £60 million proposal for the Ecuadorian.
As things stand, Brighton and Hove Albion have rejected the latest offer. But a new offer may tempt them to sell their prized asset immediately, as the player wants to leave the club.
According to Sky Sports News, the Seagulls want to keep Caicedo through the rest of the season as Arsenal considers improving their offer.
The Ecuadorian has been in outstanding form this year and is now widely considered one of the Premier League’s top midfielders.
EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal have submitted £60m bid to sign Moises Caicedo as new midfielder 🚨⚪️🔴 #AFC
Chelsea had £55m verbal proposal rejected this January as Brighton hope to keep the player — but Arsenal are now pushing.
Negotiations enter into key stages for Caicedo’s future. pic.twitter.com/WZp3RKRdbx
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 27, 2023
His season kicked off at Old Trafford with a stunning performance during Brighton’s 2-1 victory, and soon after that, he was extensively linked with a move to the Red Devils.
Instead, United signed Casemiro to bolster their midfield, and under Erik ten Hag, the Brazilian has quickly emerged as an important member of the team. But Caicedo has impressed with his incisive passing and dribbling ability while playing as a box-to-box midfielder for Roberto de Zerbi.
That would imply that the player could effectively cover in defensive midfield while also partnering with Casemiro as a number eight player.
A third elite midfielder is required to prevent the weariness that has become a recurring topic this season because Eriksen and Casemiro must play in nearly every game due to the subpar backup players for United.
The Red Devils lack the resources to pursue Caicedo right now, but it is believed that they are still keeping an eye on his status, leaving the door open for a summer offer.
If Arsenal fails to test Brighton’s resolve before Wednesday, United will undoubtedly be in the running to lure him this summer.
