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Chelsea have been told that Brighton star Moises Caicedo can be the Blues’ next Claude Makelele, as incoming boss Mauricio Pochettino has apparently already signed off on a big-money move
for the Ecuadorian. Caicedo could be on the move this summer as Seagulls boss Roberto De Zerbi admitted that departures could still take place, with Chelsea and Arsenal said to be among
those interested in his signature. The Gunners had several big-money offers turned down by Brighton in January for Caicedo, as his performances alongside Alexis Mac Allister in midfield have
been crucial to them securing European football for next season. However, the pair have been eyed by their Premier League rivals and despite Caicedo penning a new contract in March, suitors
have not been put off. One of Chelsea’s main priorities for their first transfer window with Pochettino is an energetic midfielder that can be paired with Enzo Fernandez. Liverpool and
England icon John Barnes has claimed that Caicedo reminds him of Makelele in a glowing commendation of the 21-year-old, which will be music to the ears of Chelsea’s hierarchy. "I love
Caicedo,” Barnes told MyBettingSites. “He’s been playing in the full-back position but naturally he’s a defensive midfielder. We like the flair players that create and score goals but
defensive midfield players aren’t as appreciated. He reminds me of Claude Makelele who’s not particularly eye-catching but what he does for the team is important.” Barnes is not the only
Caicedo admirer, however, as Pochettino has reportedly already given the green light for a summer move. 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. “Unless there is a miracle, Chelsea won’t be landing Declan Rice this summer (it’s not over
yet),” Phillips told Chelsea-news.co. “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.” De Zerbi hopes that securing European football can help keep the likes of Caicedo
and Mac Allister at Brighton, but was realistic and admitted that they still could leave the club. “We can offer Moises and Alexis 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.” If Chelsea
and Pochettino are going to land Caicedo they will be aware that Brighton are tough negotiators, having taken Graham Potter and his backroom staff in addition to Marc Cucurella - Todd Boehly
will hope that his positive relationship with the Seagulls’ decision-makers can help land their next Makelele.