Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi claims that Moises Caicedo has nothing to prove against Arsenal on Sunday after missing out on a switch to the Gunners in January. The Ecuador international has impressed for the Seagulls in the heart of their midfield, replacing Yves Bissouma after his move to Tottenham last summer.
At just 21-years-old, the midfielder has shown plenty of promise and as a result, has led to lots of transfer interest from some of the biggest clubs in Europe. On transfer deadline day in January, Arsenal made their move to add the youngster into their squad, but had a £70million bid rejected.
Caicedo appeared to try and manufacture a move, posting on social media: "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.”
READ MORE: Arsenal given green light to sign Real Madrid Champions League star to replace Kieran Tierney
The Gunners could revive their interest in the summer transfer window, with further links appearing over a potential switch to the Emirates Stadium. However, while the midfield is a priority, football.london understands that West Ham star Declan Rice is the current leading target.
With those links still there, Brighton boss De Zerbi was asked whether Caicedo has anything to prove when he faces Arsenal on Sunday for the first time since the transfer saga. He told reporters: "No, I think no. He’s playing for Brighton now and only Brighton.”
It remains to be seen whether Edu will be enticed into making another move for the Ecuador international this summer, but on Sunday, the job will be to deny him and the Seagulls from playing as fluidly as they can and to earn a significant win.
READ NEXT:
Mikel Arteta has two Oleksandr Zinchenko options with Arsenal stars to miss Brighton clash
Full Arsenal squad for Brighton clash revealed as Mikel Arteta handed major injury boost
Arsenal and Edu given Southampton transfer instruction as trio become available after relegation
Arsenal line-ups vs Brighton with Jorginho decision, Tierney starts as Odegaard eyes record
Transfer news LIVE: Latest news, views and rumours from Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham
