'Damaged relationship' - Arsenal's crucial mistake in Moises Caicedo approach laid bare

Arsenal damaged their relationship with Brighton while pursuing Moises Caicedo, according to a fresh report.

Mikel Arteta’s side signed Jorginho from Chelsea on Deadline Day for £12million.

Indeed, the experienced Italian, who joins Arsenal on an initial 18-month deal, is a much needed midfield addition to Arteta’s ranks.

The Gunners had been attempting to sign a new midfielder throughout January to boost their title challenge. However the club failed in their attempts to lure primary target Caicedo.

The Premier League leaders submitted two bids worth up to £70million for the 21-year-old Ecuador international.

Yet Brighton, who are hoping to secure European football this season, were insistent the midfielder would not be leaving in the winter window.

Arsenal ‘damage relationship’ with Brighton

According to a fresh Athletic report Arsenal “damaged” their relationship with Brighton during their pursuit of Caicedo.

The publication claimed Arsenal did not expect their opening £60million bid to be accepted but had hoped to at least initiate a negotiation for the player.

However the Gunners “misjudged the situation”, with the Seagulls dismissing the offer within minutes and making it clear they did not intend to allow Caicedo to leave.

A day later, a call is said to have taken place between Brighton’s owner and chairman Tony Bloom, and Arsenal board member Tim Lewis. However the discussions reached a dead end with Bloom again insistent Brighton would not let their prized asset leave.

Nevertheless, Arsenal tested Brighton’s resolve one final time, raising their offer to £65million plus £5million in potential add ons. It was again, dismissed.

Arsenal made a mistake with their second bid. According to the Athletic, Brighton were “perplexed and irritated” Arsenal had not got the message, while the cordial relationship between the two clubs had been “damaged”.

Arsenal had previously signed both Ben White and Leandro Trossard from the south coast club, however their botched January pursuit of Caicedo may effect future attempts to land the star.