Moises Caicedo 'determined to join Chelsea' after Brighton immediately reject fresh bid

Moises Caicedo could again miss out on a dream transfer (Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)

Moises Caicedo could again miss out on a dream transfer as Brighton stand firm over their valuation - with Chelsea eyeing up an alternative target.

Moises Caicedo could again miss out on a dream transfer from Brighton.

The Ecuadorian midfielder failed to push through a move to Arsenal in January worth in the region of £75million - with Chelsea's offer of £80m this summer swiftly rejected by the transfer chiefs on the south coast.

The 21-year-old is said to be determined to move on two years after he joined the club from Independiente del Valle for a fee in the region of just £4.5m.

Furthermore, Chelsea are thought to be looking into the potential signing of Romeo Lavia from Southampton - who might well come cheaper thanks to the relegation of his parent club.

The Athletic report that Caicedo is again keen to leave despite signing a new contract that runs until 2027 earlier this year.

Owner Tony Bloom is said to be firm in his stance, which could well change if a bid in the region of £100m comes in.

The report adds that Chelsea are considering alternative options, including Lavia of Southampton who is a central target of Liverpool.

Caicedo appeared off the bench for Roberto Di Zerbi's side during their 2-0 win over Brentford in pre-season, with the manager admitting that the future of the player is up in the air.

Moises Caicedo's former team-mate Alexis Mac Allister has moved to Anfield (Image: AFP via Getty

Romeo Lavia is also a target for Liverpool (Image: Getty Images)

He said: "Everyone is speaking about Moises, Chelsea maybe but me? No. The situation is very clear at the moment.

"Moises is a Brighton player and Tony Bloom told me, if the conditions don't change, Moises stays with us. For me, it would be great news."

Brighton will contest the Europa League this season after finishing sixth in the table last season, six places above Chelsea.

Mauricio Pochettino has big plans at Chelsea (Image: Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

However, the Blues have been boosted by the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino, who is set to welcome fresh stars after a series of departures.

The former Spurs and PSG boss said this week: "It is about creating a squad with good balance and people who have the opportunity to play and can compete for their place.

"That is a big job and challenge for us in the transfer window to build a good relationship and good balance."