Arsenal remain hopeful of getting a deal done to bring in Moises Caicedo before the January transfer window closes on Tuesday evening. The Gunners have now had two bids firmly rejected by Brighton, who have made it clear that they do not want to sell.
The Seagulls are thought to have been unmoved by Caicedo's plea for a move on social media which Arsenal insist they had nothing to do with. They are keen to keep the Ecuadorian international at the Amex and view him as a key player in their push to qualify for Europe.
Although Arsenal remain respectful of Brighton's stance, they are of the opinion that a deal could be done if Roberto De Zerbi's side bring in a midfielder before Tuesday's 11pm deadline. The Gunners do not want to overpay for Caicedo, though.
READ MORE: Arsenal set for January transfer exits with Marquinhos nearing Norwich loan move
They have shown already in moves for Mykhailo Mudryk this window that they will walk away from deals in order to protect the long-term interests of the club. This could make a move for Caicedo tricky as Brighton are likely to demand a sizeable fee in order to let him go.
For their part, the Seagulls are exploring the market for potential alternatives if Caicedo does go. This is to be expected though. RB Leipzig's Amadou Haidara has been linked, although it is not thought that a deal is close. Manager Roberto De Zerbi has indicated though that his team are prepared for the Ecuadorian's departure.
"I would like him to finish the season with us but we are ready to go forward without him," said De Zerbi after Brighton's FA Cup fourth-round win over Liverpool. "When you are 21 and you receive the request of a big team that is playing in European competition, I can understand."
With Mohamed Elneny's injury thought to be long-term, Arsenal would still like to bring in a midfielder before the window slams shut on Tuesday. Alternatives such as Martin Zubimendi and Ibrahima Bamba have been linked as potential competitors for Thomas Partey.
The urgency for a midfielder has been eased slightly, however, by the fact that early scans shown Partey's injury sustained against Manchester City is no thought to be a serious one.
READ NEXT:
Three Moises Caicedo transfer alternatives Arsenal can target if Edu can't secure deadline move
Partey, Jesus, Smith Rowe - Arsenal injury news and return dates after Manchester City clash
Arsenal cannot risk transfer window failure repeat amid Moises Caicedo talks and Partey dilemma
Find the footballs on the football.london website to win cash prize, vouchers and TV worth £3,000
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium
