Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi believes the best solution for Moises Caicedo is to remain with the Seagulls until the end of the season amid interest from both Arsenal and Chelsea. The former Shakhtar Donetsk head coach believes it is important for the Ecuador international to remain on the south coast.
football.london understands that the Gunners had a £60million bid rejected by the team that they have already purchased Leandro Trossard from. Chelsea saw a bid turned down earlier in the window, with Brighton said to be holding out for a fee in excess of £75million.
The Blues are no strangers to business with Brighton having already brought Marc Cucurella, Graham Potter and his coaching staff, as well as director Paul Winstanley to Stamford Bridge from the club. Levi Colwill headed to the Amex Stadium on loan from Chelsea, while Billy Gilmour completed a permanent transfer in the summer.
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The 21-year-old's contract runs until 2025 and Caicedo noted earlier this month that he wanted to help Brighton qualify for Europe, and intended to remain focused on the Seagulls. The latter point is one his boss believes.
"He [Caicedo] is a good guy. He is focused on Brighton. I hope he can stay with us until the end of the season. In my opinion that is the best solution for us. I can understand other big teams want Caicedo, Mac Allister, Mitoma, and March," De Zerbi told the media gathered for his press conference.
"I spoke with him on Wednesday and I told him my opinion. It is always difficult to change during the season. For our way, it is important for him to stay a few more months.
"He is relaxed. I spoke with him like a father, not a coach. I understand when one player has the possibility to change to a very big team. But my work is to give the style of play but also advice for his career and his life."
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