Liverpool and Man United have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo, according to reports.
The Reds were strongly linked with Caicedo in August, following the Ecuador international's excellent start to life at the Amex Stadium.
He was one of many Seagulls players to improve under the coaching of Graham Potter, and starred in the 2-1 win over United on the opening day of the 2022/23 Premier League season.
Potter described Caicedo as a 'fantastic' player while still Brighton boss - and the 20-year-old has continued to shine under new boss Roberto De Zerbi.
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His performance in the 4-1 win over Potter's Chelsea on Saturday was highly acclaimed. Caicedo led Brighton's midfield superbly, and created several chances with key passes in the victory.
That has further alerted top European clubs to his talents, with Liverpool and United both keen. The Red Devils, in fact, were reportedly close to bringing the 20-year-old into the club from his native Ecuador in 2021. But the deal broke down, and Brighton swooped in.
And new reports suggest their chances of signing of the midfielder may have gone up in recent days.
Liverpool, Man United given Caicedo boost
According to the Daily Mirror, Brighton are now ready to sell Caicedo - but would want around £85 million in order to sanction any transfer.
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This would be a boost to Liverpool, with recent reports from The Times suggesting they would not want to pay over £100 million for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham, who is one of the club's long-term targets.
But this suggests Klopp's side would have to choose between Bellingham and Caicedo to strengthen their midfield.
United could once again enter the race for a player they almost signed, as the Ecuador star could be the perfect midfield partner for Casemiro.
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Newcastle and Chelsea are also credited with an interest in Caicedo. The Blues have already done business with Brighton this season, both to complete the signing of ex-Seagulls full-back Marc Cucarella, and to bring Potter to Stamford Bridge as the club's new manager.
Whatever happens, it looks certain that there will be a major battle between the aforementioned clubs to sign the 20-year-old rising star.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Liverpool, Manchester United, Brighton And Hove Albion, Jurgen Klopp, Erik Ten Hag