ARSENAL have reportedly submitted a second offer worth £70million in an attempt to sign Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo.
But the Seagulls are understood to be standing by their decision not to sell the Ecuadorian, 21.
Caicedo released a statement on Friday night urging Brighton to accept the Gunners’ original £60m bid.
Chelsea had also already seen an offer worth £55m turned down by the south-coast outfit.
Brighton responded to Caicedo’s demand by telling him to stay away from training until after the January transfer window closes on Tuesday.
He was also informed he would play no part in their FA Cup clash with Liverpool on Sunday.
READ MORE ON ARSENAL
Now, according to The Mail, Arsenal have returned with a second offer consisting of £60m plus £10m in add-ons.
It comes after Thomas Partey was taken off at half-time during the Gunners’ 1-0 defeat to Man City in the FA Cup on Friday .
Brighton insist they will not sell, but reports suggest they may considering a deal at £80m.
The young midfielder, who has been a key part of Roberto De Zerbi’s side this season, is concerned he will not be in demand in the summer if Arsenal and Chelsea turn their attention towards West Ham captain Declan Rice.
Most read in Football
BETTING SPECIAL – BEST FOOTBALL BETTING SITES IN THE UK
That’s why he took to Instagram on Friday in a desperate attempt to convince Brighton to allow him his move.
He wrote: “I am grateful to Mr. 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.”
Brighton sit sixth in the Premier League table and are in contention for a European place.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are keen to bolster their squad in order to maintain their title challenge.
And Chelsea are continuing to swoop for a host of players having already splashed nearly £200m in the January window.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
