BRIGHTON star Moises Caicedo has “agreed personal terms” with Arsenal ahead of the summer transfer window, reports suggest.
The Gunners have been targeting Caicedo since January when they tabled a £70million bid, which was rejected by the Seagulls after the player issued a transfer request.
The North Londoners have maintained their interest but have been facing competition from Premier League rivals Chelsea and Liverpool.
According to TERADEPORTES, however, the midfielder has reached a verbal agreement with Mikel Arteta’s side who are looking to strengthen in midfield with Granit Xhaka likely to leave.
The same report claims Arsenal pose as the Ecuador international’s preferred destination.
That is because the Premier League runner-ups will be playing in the Champions League next season.
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However, Chelsea are looking to hijack their rivals’ deal, just like they did with Mykhailo Mudryk in January, as they are willing to table a higher bid.
However, the Blues won’t be playing in Europe this coming season after a torrid campaign that saw them finishing 12th.
Liverpool are also keeping tabs but don’t consider Caicedo as a priority.
That is because the Reds are not willing to meet the 21-year-old asking price, which is said to be “well in excess” of the £70m Arsenal submitted in January.
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This comes after the Merseysiders pulled out of the race for Borussia Dortmund superstar Jude Bellingham as they refused to meet his £100m-plus release clause.
Jurgen Klopp’s side now looks close to strengthening in midfield with Caicedo’s Brighton team-mate Alexis Mac Allister.
The Ecuadorian stood out this season as he helped Robert De Zerbi’s side finish sixth and qualify for the Europa League.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
