Liverpool have hijacked Chelsea’s move to sign Brighton & Hove Albion defensive midfielder Moises Caicedo by presenting an exceptionally lucrative proposal.
Chelsea had engaged in talks with Brighton over the course of the summer, making multiple bids that were rejected by the Seagulls.
The Blues thought they were close to securing a deal for Caicedo, as they had gained approval from the young midfielder. However, Liverpool have disrupted these plans by making a last-minute, higher bid that surpasses Chelsea’s offer.
According to The Athletic, the Reds have presented a £110 million proposal, surpassing Chelsea’s £100 million bid.
With the agreement between Liverpool and Brighton settled the Merseyside team have now finalised personal terms with the Ecuadorian international.
BREAKING: Liverpool submitted their official bid for Moisés Caicedo tonight and Brighton are set to accept! 🚨🔴#LFC bid, set to break English transfer record — up to £110m total fee.
Moisés Caicedo will become Liverpool player on Friday, if all goes to plan. pic.twitter.com/cjZV2te10g
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 11, 2023
This step is deemed to be merely a formality. The South American star could travel to Anfield today for his medicals.
Caicedo’s move to Liverpool could potentially free up Chelsea to pursue Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia.
While Lavia has been a target for Liverpool as well, the Blues seems to have an advantage in signing him, as they’ve recently made a €48 million offer to Southampton.
Must Read: Liverpool take a surprise lead in the race to sign Chelsea star Moises Caicedo
The £110 million deal for Caicedo would set a new club and British record transfer fee, surpassing the amount paid for Arsenal’s Declan Rice.
This signing is likely to complete Liverpool’s midfield rebuild, which has already seen investments in Alexis Mac Allister and Dominic Szoboszlai this summer.
There is the possibility that Thiago Alcantara may follow the likes of Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain, and Naby Keita in leaving, with Al-Ahli showing interest in signing him.
Liverpool are scheduled to face Chelsea in their opening match of the 2023-24 Premier League season this Sunday.