Arsenal and Chelsea may have been handed a twist in the Moises Caicedo transfer saga by rivals Manchester United heading into the final few days of the January transfer window. Both London clubs have been heavily linked with making a move for the Brighton star this month.
The Blues were first, lodging a bid that was reported to be in the £55million range for the 21-year-old as a solution to their midfield concerns. The Seagulls swiftly shot down that proposal but that didn't stop the Gunners making their own offer as football.london understands a £60million bid was tabled and also rejected.
The Ecuador international has since taken things into his own hands as a statement was released on his future and desire to leave the south coast club.
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It read: "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."
Caicedo then missed training on the Saturday ahead of his side's clash with Liverpool in the fourth round of the FA Cup, with reports claiming that he has been told to stay away until after the transfer deadline has passed. It remains to be seen how this saga will end, with only a few days remaining.
However, past comments from the youngster may have provided a twist as he has described his "dream" of playing for Manchester United.
He told the Athletic: "My dream is to play for Manchester United. Antonio Valencia is an example to follow. With his strength and dedication, he was able to get to that level. That motivates me to keep working hard and do the right things."
While the Red Devils are unlikely to invest in the January transfer window, they are beginning planning for the summer. Should Caicedo stay at Brighton beyond next Tuesday, then the whole transfer race could be blown wide open in a few months time.
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