Arsenal have submitted a new bid for Moises Caicedo worth £70million, according to reports.
The Gunners saw a £60m bid for the Ecuadorian turned down on Friday morning, with the Seagulls said to be demanding £75m. Caicedo did not turn up to training on Saturday before missing the FA Cup victory over Liverpool on Sunday afternoon as speculation surrounding his future intensifies in the final days of the window.
After Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi admitted that the club are "ready to go forward" without the talented midfielder, news of an improved offer from the Gunners emerged on Sunday evening. Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano posted on Twitter: "EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal submitted new bid for Moises Caicedo. Understand it's worth £70 package add-ons included.
READ MORE: Arsenal handed Moises Caicedo £75m transfer boost by Brighton with £5.2m confirmation
"Brighton don't want to sell the player, stance very clear after £60m opening bid rejected - but Arsenal try again as Caicedo wants the move."
There isn't much time for the two clubs to agree on a deal with the January transfer window slamming shut on Tuesday at 11pm. However, Caicedo has already revealed his desire to leave the Seagulls with a shock statement released at the weekend.
"I am grateful to Mr. Bloom [the Seagulls owner] and Brighton for giving me the chance to come to the Premier League and I feel I have always done my best for them," the statement read. "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. 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."
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