Moises Caicedo issues plea to leave Brighton with statement on Instagram after transfer bids from Arsenal and Chelsea are rejected
Arsenal and Chelsea transfer target Moises Caicedo asked Brighton to let him leave the club before the January transfer window closes.
The 21-year-old took to Instagram to post a statement about his wish to 'take up this magnificent opportunity', having attracted the interest of some of the Premier League's top sides thanks to his impressive performances for the Seagulls.
Both the Gunners and the Blues have had bid rejected for the midfielder, who joined Brighton in 2021.
Amid the speculation, Caicedo has taken to social media to release a statement to the club and its fans.
He : "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.”
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Arsenal made a £60million bid for the Ecuadorian international, but their offer was rejected.
Despite their interest in Caicedo, the Gunners are also said to be leading the race for West Ham captain Declan Rice.
Chelsea, meanwhile, have seen a £55m bid dismissed.
Brighton are bracing themselves for more bids before Tuesday's transfer deadline, but do not want to lose another of their key players in January and will not be forced to sell.
Caicedo has made 31 appearances for the south coast club since he joined, with 21 of those coming this season.
Given his recent statement, it looks as though he wants to leave for pastures new, sooner rather than later.