Manchester United are set to drop their interest in Mason Mount and turn their attention to Brighton & Hove Albion’s star Moises Caicedo.
The Times report that United are focusing on other midfield targets, with Caicedo top of their list.
This decision arrives after Chelsea rejected United’s third offer for Mount, worth £50 million plus £5m in add-ons.
The Blues have countered the proposal with £58m plus £7m in bonuses, but United are reportedly unhappy due to the prolonged negotiations.
Caicedo is heavily linked with a big-money move this summer after enjoying a spectacular season with Brighton.
Moises Caicedo adds more value than Mason Mount
The Red Devils should not match Chelsea’s unrealistic demands.
A transfer move for Caicedo will likely burst the bank a little more than it would have with Mount.
However, it is a transfer move that makes tactical and financial sense.
Chelsea are refusing to budge from their sky-high valuation of £65m for a player with just one year left in his contract.
United might have to splash out at least £80m for Caicedo, who is regarded as one of the best young midfielders in the English top flight.
The fee will be higher, but he brings more value to United than Mount.
Caicedo would be a robust back-up to Casemiro in the number six spot. This is not a role that the England international can perform.
He could also slot along the Brazilian in the number eight role in big matches if Ten Hag eyes more solidity in the midfield.
Ironically, Caicedo is a top target for Chelsea, but United should beat them in this transfer battle.
