As the star player skips the final preseason game, the Brighton manager throws a transfer bombshell for Chelsea and Liverpool.

Paul Barber, chief executive and vice chairman of Brighton and Hove Albion, explains why Moises Caicedo did not play in today’s last preseason matchup against Rayo.

Caicedo, 21, is still the subject of heated transfer rumors, with Chelsea and Liverpool both interested in signing the Ecuadorian international. Chelsea has offered £80 million so far, while a mystery bidder, thought to be Liverpool, had a proposal of at least £80 million rejected last week. Brighton’s value is still unwavering, and they won’t even think about selling until it exceeds £100 million.

Caicedo played in the Premier League Summer Series but was absent from Brighton’s final warm-up, a 1-1 draw with Rayo at the American Express Stadium today. Caicedo is anticipated to make a comeback for Albion’s home opener against Luton Town in the Premier League on August 12.

Paul Barber, who oversaw Brighton’s negotiations with Chelsea for much of the summer and was speaking to the Albion official website, stated that Moises had a minor hamstring injury late in training and was taken off for that reason. “It makes no sense to risk him today with the start of the Premier League season only a week away. We’re excited for Moises to begin the season with us; he has a long-term contract with Brighton.

Caicedo was acquired by Brighton from Independiente del Valle in 2021 for about £4 million, and since then, he has become one of the most in-demand midfielders in all of football.

He’s perhaps one of the most exciting young midfielders in the world right now, and we’re thrilled to have him, said Barber. Except for Moises, all of the players are in good health and physical shape. After today’s friendly, we’ll get ready for Luton’s arrival the following week.