According to the Telegraph, Liverpool have taken the lead in the race to sign Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo, reportedly surpassing Chelsea in a bidding competition.
Recent developments suggest that the Blues appeared to overtake Liverpool in the pursuit of Southampton’s Romeo Lavia, submitting a £48 million offer for the young Belgian midfielder on Wednesday.
The Telegraph indicates that the Blues’ move for Lavia might have been prompted by Liverpool’s unexpected attempt to outmanoeuvre them in securing Caicedo.
Understand Brighton want to resolve the Moisés Caicedo saga tonight 🚨🔵🇪🇨#BHAFC have been clear: selling to the highest bidder.
Liverpool will challenge Chelsea and also send formal proposal bid to Brighton — official bids will be there.
Player position will be crucial too. pic.twitter.com/7YkgJwMI6u
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 10, 2023
Despite this, it’s believed that the South American star’s preferred choice is to join Stamford Bridge, and a £100 million transfer deal is still anticipated to be finalized by the week’s end.
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Contrasting reports suggest that Liverpool have yet to formally present an offer for Caicedo. However, they have initiated discussions with Brighton after growing frustrated with the slow pace of negotiations with Southampton for Lavia.
Liverpool are in urgent need of strengthening their midfield following the recent departures of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho.
Their interest in Caicedo has been persistent, even though they have concentrated on pursuing a deal for Lavia in recent weeks.
It’s of utmost importance for Jorg Schmadtke to successfully secure the transfer of at least one of these players to Anfield before the transfer window closes.
Jurgen Klopp cannot afford to proceed into the upcoming season without a well-established natural defensive midfielder.