Chelsea 'lining up fresh Moises Caicedo approach'

Chelsea are reportedly prepared to submit a new bid for Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo.

The Blues are keen to strengthen in the middle of the park following the departures of Mateo Kovacic, Mason Mount and Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

Caicedo has emerged as a top target for the West London club, but they are yet to reach an agreement with Brighton over a transfer.

The Seagulls have already turned down a number of bids from Chelsea, including the latest offer worth up to £80m.

According to The Guardian, Chelsea are ready to return to the negotiating table with a new bid for the Ecuador international.

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Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino are determined to get a deal over the line, as he looks to bolster his squad before the start of the new season.

Brighton have made it clear in previous negotiations that they will not drop their £100m asking price - a figure that Chelsea have been reluctant to meet.

However, there is a belief that the Blues will eventually sign Caicedo this summer, even if they have to match Brighton's valuation.

Amid speculation surrounding his future, Caicedo missed Brighton's friendly against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday due to a tight hamstring.

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The midfielder made a total of 43 competitive appearances last season, helping the Seagulls qualify for the Europa League and reach the FA Cup semi-finals.

Chelsea have considered a number of alternatives to Caicedo, including Leeds United's Tyler Adams, who has a £20m relegation clause in his contract.

Paris Saint-Germain's Leandro Paredes is another name that has been linked, while Chelsea have also shown an interest in Southampton's Romeo Lavia.

Chelsea will kick off the new Premier League season on Sunday when they face Liverpool at Stamford Bridge in Pochettino's first competitive game in charge.