Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi has revealed what he told Moises Caicedo after his failed transfer to Chelsea and Arsenal. Both London clubs came in for the 21-year-old but the Seagulls remained firm on their stance he would not be for sale in the January window.
The Blues made their move to sign Caicedo in the middle of the trading period after it looked as though they had lost out on Benfica star Enzo Fernandez. Arsenal meanwhile, appeared from nowhere in the final days of the month with an offer which was immediately rejected by Brighton.
While Brighton did not want Caicedo to leave, the midfielder appeared to be tempted by a move to the Gunners so much so he tried to force the transfer by releasing a statement hinting at his wish to leave. Despite that and another two proposals from Arsenal, Caicedo remained on the south coast and has since signed a new contract at the club.
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Brighton are not unfamiliar with fellow Premier League clubs attempting to poach their players, but the club once again handled the situation carefully and have been rewarded. The Ecuador international's new deal spans to 2027 and includes a significant pay increase.
In his most recent press conference, ahead of Brighton's clash with Leeds, De Zerbi was asked about his relationship with the former Independiente del Valle star and if the youngster had learned from the situation where he tried to engineer a move away.
"I was honest with him and I told him what was my opinion and my idea," he told reporters, via Sussex Live. "I spoke with him about my vision, but not for my interest or for the club, but for his interest. I spoke like a father because he is young, I have two children who are almost the same age, if I can help my players, that is my work.
"I think he’s a good guy and it can happen to think in a different way. But if you trust in your player, you have to believe in him. You have to give him your opinion and idea to make the right decision.
"For him, it was important to stay at least another six months, I hope another two years. But first, to finish this season with his teammates and clubs, it’s important for him."
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