Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi has admitted that it is ‘possible’ Moises Caicedo leaves the club this month amid interest from Newcastle United.
The Magpies are currently in the market for a midfielder, with Jonjo Shelvey picking up another injury during the Christmas period. It has left Newcastle light in the middle of the park, while an ankle problem for Bruno Guimaraes has further highlighted the limited options Eddie Howe has at his disposal.
The Toon boss is keen to bring in someone who can play the ‘number six’ role, and reportedly believes that Caicedo is up to the task.
The Telegraph recently claimed that the 21-year-old is on Newcastle’s list of targets, while the Athletic have added that Howe thinks he is an ideal fit for the way his team plays.
He is a player that Dan Ashworth knows well, having been the one to bring the Ecuadorian to the Premier League two years ago. Now he is looking to be reunited with Caicedo, and Brighton boss De Zerbi has opened the door for a move away.
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Roberto De Zerbi on Moises Caicedo’s future
The 43-year-old has spoke to the press ahead of Brighton’s game against Leicester this weekend. He was asked about Caicedo’s future at the Amex Stadium.
“It’s difficult to change [him] with another player inside of the season,” De Zerbi said.
“I hope he finishes the season with us, but in the transfer market it’s always difficult to give an answer. When there are some big teams who want our player, it’s good news for us.
“The best solution is that he can finish the season with us, and in the summer would be better for a change.
“If Caicedo continues to play like he has in the last games, it’s possible he can leave for another team.”
He is probably too expensive for the Magpies this month
While De Zerbi might be open to Caicedo leaving, there are a couple of issues for Newcastle.
The first is interest from Chelsea. Graham Potter’s side are having a wild January, splashing the cash on the likes of Mykhailo Mudryk and Benoit Badiashile.
Caicedo is also on their radar, with a £55million bid being rejected. It has been claimed that Brighton want more than that, and will only entertain bids worth more than £75million.
That would make him Newcastle’s record signing, eclipsing the £63million spent on Alexander Isak in August.
With such a monstrous fee being required, it feels incredibly unlikely that Caicedo will be on his way to St James’ Park this month. The summer could be different, but by then it might be too late given Chelsea’s current willingness to spend.