Ex-Manchester United ace Antonio Valencia sends message to Moises Caicedo after Chelsea transfer

Former Manchester United star Antonio Valencia has congratulated Moises Caicedo following confirmation of his move to Chelsea on Monday.

Mauricio Pochettino's side secured the Ecuador international on an eight-year contract after agreeing a British record £115million deal with Brighton. Liverpool had agreed a similar fee with the Seagulls before being told that the player only wanted to join Chelsea.

Caicedo grew up watching compatriot Valencia tear down United's right-hand side and was a fan of the club as a child thanks in part to his idol, and the former Reds man sent a message of congratulations after the move was confirmed.

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When the move was announced Valencia posted a picture of Caicedo as a youngster and then a picture of him representing Ecuador, alongside the caption: "Congratulations for your achievements, carry the name of our country Ecuador high. @moises_caicedo55."

United had been admirers of Caicedo and walked away from a potential deal when he broke through at Independiente del Valle. Months later the midfielder joined Brighton for just £4.5m, with their sale to Chelsea representing a profit of over £110m.

The energetic midfielder has remained on United's radar, particularly after admitting it was his dream to follow Valencia and don the famous red shirt in 2020.

“My dream is to play for Manchester United," he said in 2020. "Antonio Valencia is an example to follow. With his strength and dedication, he was able to get to that level. That motivates me to keep working hard and do the right