Man Utd hold key advantage in race for £100m star despite Arsenal bid

Manchester United hold one key advantage in the race for Brighton's Moises Caicedo amid reports of Arsenal submitting a second bid for the midfielder.

The 21-year-old has impressed on the South Coast this season, earning him interest from several top Premier League clubs.

Arsenal have recently stepped up their pursuit of the Ecuador international, submitting a second bid of £65million, according to multiple reports.

The Seagulls rejected the Gunners' initial £60million approach on Friday, insisting the midfielder was not for sale this January.

But Mikel Arteta isn't giving up, reportedly adding an extra £5 million to the offer as he looks to secure a central midfielder before the deadline slams shut.

The amount remains £35 million short of Brighton's eye-watering £100million asking price, after manager Roberto de Zerbi made it clear that he wanted the midfielder to stay at the Amex for at least another four months.

Caicedo, however, expressed his desire to leave the club on Friday, posting a series of statements on his social media which acknowledged Arsenal's bid and urged Brighton to let him go.

The World Cup star tweeted: "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."

However, Caicedo may have his heart set on Manchester United, should the Red Devils enter the race for his signature.

"My dream is to play for Man Utd"

Speaking in the summer, Caicedo stated that playing for Manchester United was his 'dream', using former Ecuador international and Red Devils star Antonio Valencia as an example.

He told The Athletic: “My dream is to play for Manchester United. Antonio Valencia is an example to follow. With his strength and dedication, he was able to get to that level. That motivates me to keep working hard and do the right things.”

Ten Hag has signed Jack Butland and Wout Weghorst on loan this January, with the Dutchman relying on his current squad to get him through until the end of the season.

The club have been linked to Tottenham striker Harry Kane, with Ten Hag thought to want a top-class striker in the summer.