Moises Caicedo says he came to the Premier League to play against "big teams" like Arsenal - but was desperate to join forces with the Gunners this January only to miss out on a dream move.
Brighton signed Caicedo from Ecuadorian side Independiente del Valle for just £4.5million back in 2019 and interviewed him six months ago on his start to life in England for the club's official YouTube channel.
The 21-year-old was asked about playing against Arsenal in his Premier League debut - the April 2022 fixture that Brighton won 2-1 at the Emirates and in which Caicedo assisted now Gunners midfielder Leandro Trossard for the opener - and his initial feelings upon signing for the south coast club.
He said: "For me and for my family, it was very special because I always dreamed of playing in the Premier League against big teams. It was good because I made an assist and I was so happy.
"Me and the people back in Ecuador. I am so proud of myself. I always was preparing for a moment like this."
Caicedo was very close to taking his dream one step further this January with Arsenal making two big-money offers for the midfielder, only for Brighton to reject both bids.
Arsenal initially bid £55million before upping the amount to £70m, but after the Seagulls parted company with Trossard - who, incidentally, joined the Gunners - they promptly closed the door on any more sales.
Caicedo was of the impression that he would be allowed to leave and actually said goodbye to his teammates, Brighton staff and the fans in a social media post on Friday.
His message read: "I am grateful to Mr [Tony] 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 [was] 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."
Arsenal have since turned their attention to Chelsea's Jorginho, with the Blues accepting a £12m bid for the midfielder, who is expected to be a Gooner by 11pm this deadline day.
