Brighton boss gives update on Moises Caicedo amid Manchester United transfer interest

Roberto De Zerbi says there is still a chance that Brighton keep hold of Manchester United-linked Moises Caicedo going into next season despite being backed for an exit.

Chelsea are the favourites to land the Ecuador star after speculation touting him with a move to Old Trafford cooled upon the signing of Mason Mount. United could still search for another midfielder this summer if funds allow, although Caicedo may be too expensive.

Erik ten Hag has spent nearly £99m of his £120m budget on Mount and Andre Onana and needs to sell players to generate cash for a striker, plus any other recruits. Reports suggest Brighton are holding out for £100m for their man.

Manager De Zerbi admitted towards the end of last season that both Caicedo and Alexis Mac Allister could have new clubs next term. Mac Allister has joined Liverpool but a successful bid has yet to be accepted for Caicedo.

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De Zerbi said Caicedo will stay within his ranks should an appropriate offer not arrive. Speaking to reports, 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 [chairman] Tony Bloom told me, if the conditions don't change, Moises stays with us. For me, it would be great news."

United are now expected to concentrate efforts on landing a striker following Onana's arrival. Talks have been held with Rasmus Hojlund, who scored 16 times for Atalanta last season.

There have meanwhile been links with Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, who United had penned an