Moises Caicedo has already admitted it was his “dream” to play for Manchester United as the club consider signing the Brighton midfield star this summer.
It comes after United were unsuccessful in their third bid for the Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount. United boss Erik ten Hag has handed the club a four-player transfer shortlist of alternatives to signing the England international.
United's latest offer for the England international, 24, was £55million, but the Blues are holding out for £65m (£58m up front, £7m in add-ons). United had previously warned that they would walk away from negotiations after a third bid – and now face a crucial decision.
While Mount tops the club’s shortlist, United are unhappy with Chelsea ’s approach to the deal and are now minded to look elsewhere. The priority for the Red Devils was to conclude the transfer quickly and in the absence of agreement, they will move on.
Caicedo was the subject of a £60million bid from Arsenal in the January transfer window, but that was turned down by the south coast side. He subsequently posted a heartfelt message on his social media channels – but it was not enough to force an exit that month.
Arsenal’s interest in the Ecuadorian has subsequently cooled with the Gunners instead pursuing deals to sign West Ham captain Declan Rice and Romeo Lavia of Southampton this month. Chelsea have been strongly credited with an interest in Caicedo, but United have held a long-term interest.
Have Your Say! Should Man Utd prioritise signing Caicedo ahead of Mount? Tell us what you think here.
Back in the summer of 2020, Caicedo said in quotes carried by The Athletic : “My dream is to play for Manchester United. Antonio Valencia is an example to follow. With his strength and dedication, he was able to get to that level. That motivates me to keep working hard and do the right things.”
United held a transfer interest in signing the midfielder that year but it was Brighton who acted fastest to snap up the midfielder, who has grown into one of the most impressive performers in the Premier League.
Ten Hag’s side are looking for at least one new midfielder this summer. United will listen to bids of £20million for midfielder Fred amid interest from Fulham. The combative Brazilian midfielder has spent the past five seasons at Old Trafford, making 213 first-team appearances and netting 14 goals in the process.
However, Fulham are interested in a deal for the Brazilian and United will allow him to depart should a replacement be sourced. It comes as Marcel Sabitzer’s loan spell at Old Trafford comes to an end, once again leaving them light in the central midfield department.
