Brighton and Hove Albion CEO Paul Barber admits Moises Caicedo’s head was turned when offered the opportunity to join Premier League leaders Arsenal during the January transfer window, speaking to talkSPORT (15 March, 5pm).
Caicedo may have raised some serious doubts about his professionalism, or his commitment to the Brighton cause, when taking to social media in an attempt to force through a mid-season switch to the Gunners.
But, since the window closed, Caicedo has gone about rebuilding those bridges in precisely the right way. The Ecuador international has maintained his excellent form from 2022, helping keep Brighton’s Champions League dreams alive.
“Moises, to his absolute credit, has got his head down, worked hard and he is happy around the club again. He is a very good footballer,” Barber explains.
Arsenal failed with a staggering £70 million bid for a man who, at the time, had fewer than 30 Premier League starts under his belt. Caicedo made no secret of his desire to seize such an opportunity, but Barber insists that Brighton were never ready to accept defeat after setting out a hardline stance.
Brighton stopped Arsenal signing Moises Caicedo
“There was never a moment in the window when we felt we needed or wanted to sell Moises,” Barber adds.
“He is only 20. He needed an arm around the shoulder and a bit of support. We know his head was turned, and we know why.”
Caicedo has since signed a new, long-term contract at the Amex. Arsenal, meanwhile, appear unlikely to renew their interest any time soon. West Ham United captain Declan Rice, per The Guardian, is now their number one summer target.
“(Caicedo’s new deal) it’s really nice for the club and for him,” Brighton team-mate and World Cup winner Alexis MacAllister told talkSPORT recently.
“I think everyone knows that Moises is really happy here at the club. He is enjoying it. So it’s really nice for the club. We are really pleased that he stays here with us.
“I think he is a fantastic player. Physically, defensively, he can play (as a number) six or an eight. He’s got versatility. I think he’s an amazing player, and I wish him all the best.”
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