In-demand midfielder Moises Caicedo has publicly called on Brighton and Hove Albion to accept the club-record £60m pound bid made by Arsenal.
Sporting Tribune reports that Brighton earlier turned down a £55m pounds offer for Caicedo from Chelsea, before turning down Arsenal’s bid on Friday.
Speaking on the bid, Brighton manager Roberto de Zerbi stated his intention to keep the player until the end of the season.
He said; “I spoke with him on Wednesday and I told him my opinion. It is always difficult to change during the season. For our way, it is important for him to stay a few more months,” De Zerbi explained.
“He is relaxed. I spoke with him like a father, not a coach. I understand when one player has the possibility to change to a very big team. But my work is to give the style of play but also advice for his career and his life.”
Caicedo also earlier stated that he is focused on Brighton and not bothered by the transfer gossip.
“I am here, I’m playing every day. Things from outside don’t trouble me, nor does it take that focus away because I’m focussed only on here,” he commented.
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Though in an unexpected turn of events, Caicedo took to Twitter (MoisesCaicedo55) to plead with Brighton to accept the record fee, citing his dreams of being the most decorated Ecuadorian player ever.
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. pic.twitter.com/QLiDyDrTGo— Moisés Caicedo (@MoisesCaicedo55) January 27, 2023
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With Arsenal currently performing above expectations where they lead the Premier League table, Caicedo is keen to leap at the chance.
He posted; “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 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.”
In light of his public transfer plea, Caicedo couldn’t join the Brighton first-team training as the Seagulls prepare for a crunch FA Cup tie against Liverpool on Sunday at the AMEX stadium.