Brighton have rejected an improved second offer from Arsenal for midfielder Moises Caicedo.
Arsenal saw an opening bid turned down last week and have since had an improved proposal worth £70m rejected, with the Seagulls insistent that the 21-year-old will not be sold before Tuesday’s transfer deadline.
Caicedo missed Brighton’s 2-1 win over Liverpool on Sunday amid the speculation surrounding his future, having pleaded with the club to allow him to leave following Arsenal’s opening offer.
“I am grateful to Mr Bloom and Brighton for giving me the chance to come to the Premier League and I feel I have always done my best for them. I always play football with a smile and with heart,” Caicedo’s Instagram post read.
“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.
“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.
“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 up this magnificent opportunity.”
Sky Sports are reporting that Arsenal’s latest bid would represent a club-record sale for Brighton, who have already sold Leandro Trossard to the Gunners this month in a £27m deal.
Mikel Arteta wants to add a midfielder before the deadline as Arsenal challenge for the Premier League title, with injuries to Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny having accelerated the club’s need for additions. Chelsea also saw a bid for Caicedo turned down earlier in the window.
