Brighton star Moises Caicedo has revealed it has always been a 'dream' of his to play for Real Madrid, despite being close to joining Arsenal or Chelsea in January. The Ecuadorian midfielder is still on the radar of a number of top clubs ahead of the summer transfer window despite signing a new long-term deal with the Seagulls.
After the Gunners had two bids rejected for the 21-year-old in January, Caicedo attempted to force through a move to the Emirates Stadium by releasing a statement expressing a desire to leave Roberto De Zerbi's side. This resulted in the Ecuador international being omitted from training and matchday squad selection until after the transfer window had closed.
In a recent interview, Caicedo opened up on his failed transfer to Arsenal and admitted he was 'hurt' after a move did not materialise. The Brighton star said: “I was really close to going [to Arsenal]. I suffered a lot. I’m sure I'm going to have many more opportunities. That’s why I continue to do things well. [But] it was tough."
READ MORE: How many points Arsenal need to be crowned Premier League champions after Southampton draw
Chelsea had a verbal offer in the region of £55million turned down by Brighton as they were able to keep hold of their prized asset until the end of the season. Now, Caicedo has revealed his 'dream' of playing for Real Madrid as the Ecuador international continues to publicly express his career ambitions.
In an interview with Cadena SER, the 20-year-old said: "It was always my dream to play for Real Madrid. Now I’m doing things very well and why not one day play there and win the Champions League with Real Madrid?
"The way they play, the personality, the style, it’s really impressive," he added. A move to Madrid may take some time to materialise given their wealth of talent in midfield with the likes of Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni, Luka Modric and Toni Kroos among Carlo Ancelotti's options.
However, a move away from Brighton this summer is not out of the question despite Caicedo signing a new deal in February. The Ecuadorian midfielder continues to attract interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United - with the new contract protecting his market value and allowing Brighton to demand a huge fee to let him leave.
READ NEXT:
Man City star Erling Haaland fires two-word response to Arsenal's draw with Southampton
Latest Arsenal injury news as 4 miss Man City with William Saliba and Granit Xhaka update expected
What Mikel Arteta did to Aaron Ramsdale after error as Arsenal seek Premier League title miracle
Arsenal player ratings vs Southampton as Aaron Ramsdale drops clanger and Fabio Vieira anonymous
Arsenal vs Southampton highlights: Odegaard and Saka goals complete comeback but points are dropped
