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Moises Caicedo did not turn up to Brighton training, a day after Arsenal saw a bid rebuffed for the player, according to reports.
Yesterday the 21-year-old confirmed he wanted to leave Brighton after Arsenal saw a £60million bid rejected for him. Earlier the same week Chelsea also had a £55million bid turned down for the Ecuador international.
On Friday, Caicedo confirmed he wants to leave the south coast club, writing in a statement: "I am grateful to Brighton for giving me the chance to come to the Premier League and I feel I have always done my best.
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"I always play football with a smile and with heart. 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.”
Caicedo, who is under contract until 2025, added: "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.
"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 this magnificent opportunity."
Caicedo misses Brighton training
According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Caicedo was absent from Brighton training this morning, as Arsenal ready a second bid for the Ecuadorian.
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The Italian tweeted: “Moises Caicedo didn’t turn up for training today — he wants to leave immediately. Caicedo could also miss tomorrow’s game.
“Understand Arsenal are expected to improve their bid after £60m revealed yesterday. Chelsea offered £55m — rejected too.”
However, according to TalkSPORT’s Alex Crook, Caicedo’s absence was granted by the Seagulls.
The club have reportedly given the player time off until after the transfer window closes on Tuesday night.
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Crook claimed: "Brighton have given Moises Caicedo time off until AFTER the window closes.
“They want him to refocus and be ready for 2nd half of the season. Their position is unchanged. The player is not for sale barring a huge bid.”
Topics: Football, Transfers, Arsenal, Mikel Arteta, Brighton And Hove Albion
Chris Byfield