Chelsea recruitment director puts moves on Caicedo minutes after Man City clash

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Chelsea chief Joe Shields may have already made his move on social media in an attempt to bring Moises Caicedo to Stamford Bridge, shortly afterBrighton’s 1-1 draw with Manchester City on Wednesday. The Ecuadorian midfielder was celebrating on Instagram Live following the result which secured Europa League football for Roberto De Zerbi’s side when he was the subject of a message from Shields.

As the celebrations inside the dressing room were being broadcasted, Shields left a comment on Caicedo’s livestream with two clapping hand emojis to congratulate him and the team on their success.

The message could be perceived as first contact made between Chelsea’s recruitment staff and the player, who will not be short of suitors despite signing a new contract on the south coast in March.

The Blues are on the lookout for a new midfielder ahead of next season to pair with Enzo Fernandez and Caicedo is said to be among their top targets, though they will likely face competition once again from Arsenal after the Gunners had several bids turned down in January.

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Shields joined Chelsea in October as the club’s co-director of recruitment and talent, he would likely have a big say in Chelsea’s upcoming transfer plans with Mauricio Pochettino expected to be at the helm.

Journalist Simon Phillips has claimed that the midfielder is Chelsea’s “number one priority” for their midfield, which has been approved by Pochettino and the club’s hierarchy including Shields. “Unless there is a miracle, Chelsea won’t be landing Declan Rice this summer (it’s not over yet),” Phillips told Chelsea-news.co.

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“And incidentally, yesterday I was told by a top source that Chelsea have placed Caicedo as their number one priority for midfield this summer. This has been approved by the decision makers and Pochettino, Chelsea want Caicedo and will move for him very soon.”

While Brighton boss De Zerbi admitted that his stars could still leave the Amex, despite securing Europa League football for next season. “We can offer Moises and Alexis [Mac Allister] the opportunity to play in Europe,” he said on Tuesday.

“Our level is bigger now. They are very good guys and it will help. I think for myself and the club but also for the players – they have one life and we can’t decide for them.”

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