Moises Caicedo says his "biggest dream" is to join Real Madrid - despite trying to force a move to Arsenal just a few months ago.
The Ecuador international, 21, is enjoying a breakthrough season with Brighton. He has made 28 Premier League appearances this campaign and was part of his country's squad for the World Cup in Qatar, scoring against Senegal during the group stage.
Caicedo's performances have caught the attention of several clubs, with Brighton's rivals Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal all showing an interest in him. The Gunners even saw a bid £70million rejected by the Seagulls at the end of January's transfer window.
Caicedo was asked about joining Real Madrid in a recent interview with Carrusel Deportivo. He said: "I like Real Madrid. It has always been my dream to play for Real Madrid.
"I'm doing things very well now, so why not join Real Madrid one day and win the Champions League? That is my biggest dream."
Caicedo's comments will raise eyebrows after the debacle involving Arsenal. It's just three months since the emerging talent hit the headlines for pleading with Brighton chair Tony Bloom to let him join the Gunners via a controversial Instagram post.
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Caicedo, who has won 30 senior caps for Ecuador, wrote: "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 has always been 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."
Caicedo's plea was rejected and the midfielder went on to sign a new long-term deal with Brighton last month. The contract is due to expire in June 2027, and the club can automatically extend it by a further 12 months. It's unclear if it contains a release clause.
Caicedo was criticised for trying to force a move. Former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O'Hara told Sky Sports: "I think it’s really poor from him. He has been badly advised. As a football player, Arsenal are supposedly in for him, it’s a big-money move and the opportunity to play for a huge football club. But it's so disrespectful to Brighton.
"It’s not like he is in a League One or Championship team... they [Brighton] have given him the opportunity. So, for him to come out and say he wants to leave. The deal isn’t even done, it’s probably not anywhere near being done. For him to come out and say that, I think it’s poor as a player, not professional."
