He is their Kante replacement so I'm not surprised they're intent on getting him, but it surprises me there hasn't been competition from other clubs. Caicedo was a standout player last season, you would think more clubs would be in for him.
I think its just mainly the price. There's not many clubs who pay £80m+ and even less who have an opening in central midfield.
Arsenal tried in January but the price was too high, Real were focussed on Bellingham, PSG went with the Sporting guy and Man City dont need him, so its pretty much only Chelsea and Man Utd left who'd pay silly money (other than Saudi clubs).
I suppose that's true, yeah. Man City have bought players they don't have an immediate need for before though and I think Pep would love him. Wasn't Bayern interested? Though they would never pay that kind of money I guess.
The biggest question mark for me is Man Utd, he would be perfect for them and could actually potentially replace Casemiro in the future when he gets too old. Though I guess they have no money until the takeover goes through (if it ever will, feels like an absurd neverending dream at this point).
Perhaps its partly a FFP thing for Man Utd. In addition to the owner issues, their inability to sell anyone at a decent price must affect their transfer budget too.
United just spent 70m on Casemiro last year and as things stand, I dont see how they drop 90m+ on his replacement a year later.
Bayern and City won't over pay for players, and I'm guessing Brighton are going to want around 90-100m, so both teams probably won't make a bid.
Chelsea is the only team who has the money and a starting spot open in the mid, but knowing their habit of overpaying (lately) I'm wondering if Brighton try to fleece Chelsea.
Well, Caicedo would play alongside Case initially, but you're right. Especially since Utd currently has a gaping hole at both striker and goalkeeper and a seemingly FFP-restricted budget. It makes sense.
Them with Erikson/Bruno would be a formidable midfield.
I'm curious to see who they sign this summer as they need to fill 2 vital roles and it's not like there are many quality options at this point. With everyone around them addressing the issues in their squad I'd be nervous if I were a Man U fan.
You can probably add Newcastle to the wealthy club list these days.
I think Arsenal were in talks but the Rice deal being so pricey plus Brighton’s demands probably took them out of the running.
Here for discussion of all things association football/soccer!
Rules
Other Football/Soccer Related Communities