Chelsea are scouting Independiente del Valle midfielder Moises Caicedo, according to reports in the English media.
The Ecuadorian international has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United in recent days, but the Blues, along with Newcastle and Brighton, are also thought to be keeping close tabs on the player.
It is said that Chelsea have been in contact with intermediaries representing Caicedo, and most supporters on Twitter would be happy for the club to make a move for the 19-year-old in the January transfer window:
This guy is a Pogba with higher pace and better skill. Will love to see us highjack the deal.
— Mr Zeal Uduma (@zealOhafia1) December 24, 2020
Yeeees!!!! He's a beast!
— José Bolívar Balda (@BaldaBolivar) December 24, 2020
This kids marking ability is unreal for his age. He is still raw but there is a massive massive player in there when he is polished.
— Seyi King (@MrKings_ng_) December 24, 2020
Buy and loan like Sarr
Evaluate in a couple years to add to 1st team or sell at a hefty profit
Moreover jeopardize utd transfer plans
Win-win— Raunak Nandy (@raunakwiz9) December 24, 2020
He's very good for a 19y/o midfielder. South American people call him the gem of South America
— ęđ (@UtdEd_) December 24, 2020
The new willian??
— rauul (@RauulH1891) December 24, 2020
Bullying utd to a transfer ? pic.twitter.com/LMjVgYtuju
— Wakanda Blue Osasuehi (@ClaroClarence) December 24, 2020
LAMPARD PULL >>>>>>
— CFC HZ (@Sugante123) December 24, 2020
if we pull this off marina is the greatest negotiator of all time
— Ali ? (@alicfc2005) December 24, 2020
Reports suggest that Caicedo could be available for as little as £4.5m, while his salary would not be a problem either. Whether Chelsea actually need another holding midfielder, though, is another matter entirely.
Manager Frank Lampard already has the likes of N’Golo Kante, Billy Gilmour and Ethan Ampadu in the squad, so signing someone like Caicedo may be an investment for the future rather than having plans to play him in the first team straight away.