CHELSEA have reportedly joined Manchester United in the hunt to prise Ecuadorian teenager Moises Caicedo away from Independiente del Valle.
The Red Devils were believed to be in pole position to secure the 19-year-old midfielder’s services following his dazzling displays this season.
Ecuador starlet Moises Caicedo is reportedly attracting interest from Manchester United and ChelseaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano stated that United were in talks to sign the teenager – who has been capped four times for his country’s senior side.
He said: “Manchester United are in direct contact with the agents of Moises Caicedo (Indep. del Valle).
“The agreement on personal terms [5 years] won’t be a problem. €5m (£4.5m) price tag.
“#MUFC ‘control’ the situation by weeks and will decide soon whether to complete the deal or not.”
However according to the Daily Mail, Chelsea have entered the race to bring Caicedo to England.
And they have also claimed that while United are interested in the player, talks aren’t yet at an advanced stage.
It has been stated that the Blues have sent scouts to watch the youngster in action.
Chelsea are also said to have held discussions with Independiente del Valle about a possible £4.5million deal.
United will be desperate not to lose out on another promising talent with Celta Vigo defender Stefan Bajcetic believed to prefer a move to Liverpool.
And United aren’t just competing with Chelsea for Caicedo’s signature, as Brighton and Newcastle are also interested.
But United will hope the fact the player is a boyhood fan of the club will prove to be crucial.
In a recent TV interview, he said: “Manchester United are my favourite club.
“I really like the game of N’Golo Kante and Paul Pogba, I learn a lot from them every time I see them.
“I always try to do what they do, that’s why they are there.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk