Title: Chelsea Considering Cheaper Alternatives to Moises Caicedo in Midfield Search
Introduction
Chelsea Football Club is currently in the midst of a squad overhaul, with several players leaving for substantial fees. As a result, the club is looking to strengthen its midfield options and has identified Moises Caicedo as a potential target. However, negotiations with Brighton have hit a roadblock, prompting Chelsea to explore alternative options. This article will discuss the potential alternatives Chelsea is considering and provide an update on their midfield search.
Heading 1: Chelsea’s Squad Overhaul and Midfield Dearth
Heading 2: The Pursuit of Moises Caicedo
Chelsea’s recent clear-out has left them with a significant transfer budget but a lack of options in midfield. The club had set its sights on Moises Caicedo, an Ecuadorian midfielder who they attempted to sign in January. However, Brighton rejected two bids from Chelsea, and negotiations have stalled due to the impact of Declan Rice’s imminent move to Arsenal. Brighton is now demanding £100m for Caicedo, but Chelsea hopes to reach an agreement around £80m.
Heading 3: Cheaper Alternatives Explored
If negotiations with Brighton continue to drag on, Chelsea is prepared to explore other midfield options. Two players who have caught their attention are Amadou Onana from Everton and Romeo Lavia from Southampton.
Heading 4: Amadou Onana – A More Affordable Option
Amadou Onana joined Everton in a £33m deal last year and could be a more attainable target for Chelsea. The Toffees may be willing to sell the Belgian international for a significant profit, and Onana’s impressive performances last season make him an attractive option for Chelsea. The club believes that Onana’s price tag would be more reasonable compared to Caicedo’s valuation.
Heading 5: Romeo Lavia – A Teenage Talent
Chelsea is also considering Southampton’s teenage midfielder Romeo Lavia as a potential alternative. Lavia has shown promise at a young age and has attracted interest from Arsenal as well. While competition for Lavia’s signature may be fierce, Chelsea is keeping a close eye on the situation and could make a move if negotiations for Caicedo falter.
Heading 6: The Need for an Attacking Midfielder
In addition to a defensive midfielder, Chelsea is also looking to add a more attacking option to their midfield. With the departures of Kai Havertz and Mason Mount, the club is keen to find a suitable replacement. Celta Vigo’s Gabri Veiga is the preferred choice, given his £34.6m release clause. However, Manchester City is also interested in the 21-year-old after missing out on Declan Rice.
Conclusion
Chelsea’s pursuit of Moises Caicedo has hit a stumbling block, with Brighton demanding a high transfer fee. As a result, the club is exploring alternative options and has identified Amadou Onana from Everton and Romeo Lavia from Southampton as potential targets. These players offer more affordable alternatives to Caicedo and could strengthen Chelsea’s midfield. Additionally, the club is also in search of an attacking midfielder, with Gabri Veiga being their preferred choice. The midfield search continues for Chelsea as they aim to rebuild their squad for the upcoming season.