Brighton star Moises Caicedo has addressed Chelsea's interest in him and talked up Blues wonderkid Kendry Paez.
Standard Sport understands that the 21-year-old is Mauricio Pochettino's key midfield target this summer, and Chelsea are willing to spend big to land the young Ecuadorian.
Brighton are holding out for £100million, which Chelsea will not pay, ahead of further talks over the coming days.
Caicedo was also the subject of two rejected bids from Arsenal in January and, with Chelsea now the clear frontrunners for his signature, the midfielder is flattered by the transfer speculation surrounding his future.
"It's a very great emotion," he told Maria Jose Flores. "What guy wouldn't want them to be talking about him?
"I know how to handle it. I don't get carried away by emotions. I'm enjoying time with my family for now. There is pressure, but I am calm.
"I am waiting for whatever God decides. He willl know what is best for me."
Chelsea have already snapped up Paez from Ecuador, a signing which has impressed Caicedo.
"Kendry is a star," Caicedo admitted. "Watching him play is a pleasure.
"It's good to see those talents in Ecuador. We know that we have good youth. I am very happy for him, for everything he is doing, for how he is working. May he continue on the right path and go far. He has the talent."
