Manchester United and Liverpool have reportedly entered the race to sign Moises Caicedo, despite the 21-year-old signing a new contract at Brighton.
The midfielder penned a new deal on Friday keeping him at the Amex until 2027 with an option of a further year. However, his contract renewal hasn't put potential buyers off.
The news of Caicedo's new contract will have come as a blow to Mikel Arteta after he saw two bids rejected for the 21-year-old in January, with the second said to be worth up to £70million.
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The Ecuador international even went public expressing his desire to leave Brighton, with the Emirates appearing his most likely destination.
But despite his best efforts, the Seagulls refused to budge, insisting their prized asset was not for sale - prompting Arsenal to sign Jorginho from Chelsea instead.
However, Arsenal could return for the midfielder.
Arsenal's transfer stance revealed
The Telegraph report that Arsenal could renew their interest in Caicedo, with their decision hinging on one key factor.
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The publication states that the Gunners are not currently 'expected to reignite their interest in Caicedo' at the end of this season with West Ham's Declan Rice thought to be their priority target this summer.
However, should their pursuit of Rice prove unsuccessful, Arsenal's 'position could change'.
Meanwhile, Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool are all expected to battle it out for the midfielder's signature ahead of next season.
Arteta is allegedly in the market for two central midfielders this summer, as he aims to cope with the pressures of Champions League football.
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Arsenal haven't featured in Europe's elite competition since 2017. However, a top four finish looks all but guaranteed this season barring an almighty capitulation.
Romano provides Rice update
Rice's current deal is due to expire in the summer of 2024, with the player destined to move elsewhere after turning down multiple contracts at the Hammers.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reckons there is a "very good chance" the 24-year-old will leave East London.
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Romano told Caught Offside there is a very good chance Rice will leave West Ham this summer.
The transfer guru explained: “I’m told Declan Rice has very, very good chances to leave in the summer.
“The project at his next club is absolutely crucial for Rice, he wants to win titles and to feel like an important player. He doesn’t want a big club and then only sit on the bench. He wants to be an important player.
“I love Rice. In my opinion, he’s a top top player. I’m sure he will be a regular starter wherever he decides to go.”
Topics: Moises Caicedo, Declan Rice, Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool, Premier League, Football, Transfers, Brighton And Hove Albion