Moises Caicedo has claimed that it was an easy decision to extend his contract with Brighton despite Arsenal's attempts to sign him during the January transfer window.
The Ecuadorian international was the subject of multiple bids from the Gunners during the winter window, with Mikel Arteta keen to bolster his options in the middle of the park following Mohamed Elneny's serious injury. Caicedo was also clearly keen to leave Roberto De Zerbi's side, releasing a statement on social media asking for the club to let him begin a journey at a new club.
His statement read: "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.
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"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.”
However, Brighton dug their heels in and refused to let the 21-year-old leave before Arsenal eventually turned their attention to Jorginho on transfer deadline day. Caicedo has since extended his deal with the Seagulls, a decision that he has now claimed was a straightforward one.
Speaking to the club's website about his new contract, Caicedo said: "It wasn’t a hard decision. If it had been a hard decision, I wouldn’t have signed. I’m happy with everything at the club and that’s why I signed.
"I’m focused here on Brighton, the club which opened the doors. I am very happy to be here and really pleased [with the new contract]. I don’t even think about the speculation.
"I am focused on Brighton and doing things well here. I am very happy here with my colleagues, with all the club and I will keep giving 100% for this club."
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