“Can’t buy our soul”- PL manager takes a dig at 21-year-old Chelsea target

Chelsea target Moises Caicedo is already forgotten by Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi

Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi admits he has already “forgotten” about Chelsea target Moises Caicedo and takes a dig at the clubs who buy their players.

Although Liverpool agreed on a deal with the Seagulls for Caicedo on Thursday night, the Ecuador international has stated his intentions to play for Chelsea instead.

The Blues are still figuring out a way to make a new bid to Brighton that would get accepted. It feels like a matter of time before the 21-year-old is unveiled at Stamford Bridge. Or maybe he gets that during the game against Liverpool on Sunday.

Here’s what De Zerbi said when asked about the future of Caicedo (h/t Evening Standard):

“I have already forgotten about Moises. I’m really proud of the players we have in the squad.

“We want to keep improving. The credit goes to the club. Bigger clubs can buy our players but they can’t buy our soul or spirit.”

Sounds like a manager who knows his best players would be taken away by clubs bigger than Brighton year after year. This summer, Liverpool have already taken Alexis Mac Allister from them while Caicedo will officially leave as well.

But to be fair to Brighton, they have an excellent scouting system going on. We would not be surprised if they sign a couple of gems to replace the aforementioned players in the squad before the deadline day.

They have already signed Mo Dahoud from Dortmund who is a fantastic central midfielder. For Chelsea, it is about getting the Caicedo deal done and enhancing the quality of their midfield severalfold.

More Chelsea News

• Mauricio Pochettino gives verdict on Chelsea’s pursuit of Moises Caicedo amid Liverpool hijack threat
• Chelsea have come under Premier League scrutiny for breaking financial rules
• West Ham United are considering a summer swoop for Chelsea striker Armando Broja

With the season starting on Sunday against Liverpool, even though the squad may not be completed by then, it would be great if Mauricio Pochettino’s men made a rousing start and put out a statement for everyone to see. Manchester City are still the team to beat but Chelsea were so bad last season that challenging for a title seems a stretch for the next nine months.