Arsenal is reportedly ready to compete with Chelsea for the signing of their two main transfer targets, Brighton & Hove Albion star Moises Caicedo and Everton ace Amadou Onana.
The 21-year-old Caicedo has now emerged as one of the best defensive midfielders in his Premier League in his 2022-23 season. The 28-cap Ecuador international has started 21 of his 23 games for the team and has one goal and one assist. He also impressed in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, scoring one goal in his three appearances.
Meanwhile, Onana has been a bright spot in Everton’s batting team this season. Since joining last summer for £33m from LOSC Lille, the 21-year-old Belgian midfielder has made 20 appearances in all competitions. Scored 1 goal and provided many assists.
Arsenal has named Caicedo and Onana as replacement options for West Ham captain Declan Rice, according to the Evening Standard. Both midfielders have recently been linked to Chelsea, with Brighton paying £ 55 million for the Ecuadorian’s services. I have already declined the offer.
Caicedo has reaffirmed his allegiance to the Seagulls to the club’s media amid rumors about his future. he said:
“I am focused on Brighton now. I am here, I’m playing every day. Things from outside don’t trouble me, nor does it take the focus away, because I’m focused only on here. I handle [the transfer speculations] well. You always hear rumours here and there, but I only try to be focused on the club where I am now, the club that opened the doors for me and gave me the chance to play every week.”
Caicedo, who is under contract with Amex Stadium until June 2025, has scored two goals and provided three assists in 31 appearances for Roberto De Zerbi’s side. According to CBS sportswriter Ben Jacobs, he is now valued at a hefty salary of around £75 million.