Chelsea include secret clause in Moises Caicedo deal that has helped them beat Liverpool to record transfer

Chelsea have included a secret clause as part of the deal to sign Moises Caicedo from Brighton over Liverpool, according to a new report.

The Blues have reportedly agreed a British record fee of £115 million with Brighton for the 21-year-old midfielder - just days after Liverpool had their own £111 million bid accepted.

But according to Sky Sports, Caicedo informed the Reds that he wanted to join Chelsea. At the time, Mauricio Pochettino's side had yet to submit an acceptable bid - and would have to beat or match Liverpool's offer in order to sign him.

Now, they have agreed an eight-year contract with the midfielder, and have the option of a ninth.

Once the signing is confirmed, it will bring to an end one of the wildest transfer sagas in recent seasons.

Now, it has emerged that a 'secret clause' helped the Blues to land Caicedo.

Chelsea included 'secret clause' in Moises Caicedo deal

According to CBS Sports reporter Ben Jacobs, Chelsea's £115 million bid does not represent an up-front payment to Brighton - or the figure spread out across the early stages of the player's contract.

He claims that Chelsea have offered £100 million for the midfielder, as well as a further £15 million. It is unclear as to how the extra £15 million would be triggered - but the clause has pushed their proposal ahead of Liverpool's

Furthermore, there is also a sell-on clause included.

Jacobs tweeted: "Although Chelsea's Moises Caicedo talks have been described as "complicated", Chelsea have felt really optimistic since Friday night.

"£115m package (believed to be £100+15m) is now being finalised with a sell-on clause on top. Sources indicate a deal is imminent. Chelsea want to do the medical within 48 hours if they can."

After their 1-1 draw with Liverpool on Sunday, Blues boss Pochettino was asked by Sky Sports about whether he could give any update on the Caicedo negotiations. But the Argentinian remained tight-lipped on how far along the deal is.

He stated: "No, at the moment we don't know nothing.

"We are working so hard, but I think at the moment that if something happens we will inform you directly, through the club."