Amid frustration over Mason Mount stalemate, ‘Sky Sports’ report that Manchester United will make a formal approach this week to Brighton over midfielder Moises Caicedo, who has been linked so far as a favourite for Chelsea, who have bid twice for the Ecuadorian.

Chelsea and Manchester United are not strangers, and it has looked like the two clubs may have their futures next season closely linked. The two clubs have been in strained negotiation over Blues midfielder Mason Mount, and have reached a stalemate, as United won’t raise their offer of £55 million, and Chelsea won’t lower their valuation of £65 million.

Although the clubs will reportedly meet this week in a final face-to-face discussion, the Red Devils are exploring other alternatives. After making initial contact with Brighton this week, ‘Sky Sports’ report that United will make a formal approach for midfielder Moises Caicedo.

The Seagulls value the Ecuadorian, who had a stellar season last year, at £80 million, and have already turned down one Chelsea offer for £65 million The Blues were not deterred however, and reportedly made an improved offer, somewhere around the £80 million mark, but if Man United enter the picture, it may change things. 

Chelsea are likely to need to sell more players to comply with financial regulations, as they look to sign new ones this summer, and if United fail to sign Mount, they are likely to push for the 21-year-old, who would vastly improve their midfield, and could form a double pivot alongside Casemiro.

United had appeared as contenders early in the race for Declan Rice, but quickly dropped out and are now desperate to find players to boost their midfield. It now may appear in Chelsea’s best interest to meet United in the middle over Mount, if they want to avoid a bidding war with the Red Devils over Caicedo.

Manchester United are expected to formally approach Brighton with regard to midfielder Moises Caicedo after making initial contact this week. 👀🔴

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) June 28, 2023