The end of the winter transfer window is fast approaching and teams will frantically try to strengthen their squad before the market closes to have a strong end to the season. While Arsenal do not need to panic as the season has started off very well, there is still work that can be done to improve the squad.
Two positions seem to be the main targets for the Gunners, as Edu has reportedly been chasing players in the midfield and wing areas. A midfielder the Gunners have been linked with is Moises Caicedo from Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Ecuadorian has had a strong start to his first full season in the Premier League, as the Seagulls currently sit seventh in the Premier League table. And to secure his signing, Edu could receive a crucial helping hand from Jurgen Klopp.
READ MORE: Edu attempts Chelsea January transfer revenge to solve key Mikel Arteta dilemma for Arsenal
Arsenal ramped up their interest on Friday as a £60million bid for Moises Caicedo had been rejected, football.london understands. The Gunners submitted a proposal for the Ecuadorian international to Brighton, but it is thought that the Seagulls rejected the approach promptly. That follows a £55million bid from Chelsea which was rejected earlier this week.
If Edu does opt against signing Youri Tielemans with football.london understanding that the Brazilian is prepared to wait and sign him on a free transfer next season, then it is crucial that an alternative is signed. Caicedo would certainly be a good option.
Brighton have remained firm on their stance that they will not sell Caicedo, which has forced the player to release a statement. Caicedo released a statement on Instagram making it known that he wished to depart Brighton & Hove Albion. He said: "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. 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."
Brighton could be more open to a deal if they are able to sign another midfielder. According to the Daily Mail, the Seagulls are interested in signing Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain from Liverpool. The former Arsenal midfielder could be key in helping Edu land Caicedo before the end of the Tuesday deadline as Brighton hunt for a replacement.
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