Chelsea confirm British record £115m transfer after beating Liverpool to 21-year-old

Chelsea have completed the signing of Moises Caicedo for a British record transfer of £115 million.

The 21-year-old makes the move to Stamford Bridge on an initial eight-year contract until June 2031, with the option of a further 12 months.

Caicedo’s wish has been granted after Chelsea bettered Liverpool’s initial £111 million offer for the Ecuadorian which was accepted by Brighton & Hove Albion as they ensured they won the race for their top summer transfer target.

A package worth £115 million including add-ons sees Chelsea’s spend on two midfielders, Enzo Fernandez arrived in January total around £221.8 million.

Caicedo joins his former Brighton teammates Robert Sanchez and Marc Cucurella at Chelsea, and also Levi Colwill who spent the 2022/23 season down on the south coast.

Following his move to Stamford Bridge, Caicedo said: “I am so happy to join Chelsea! I am so excited to be here at this big club and I didn’t have to think twice when Chelsea called me, I just knew I wanted to sign for the club.

“It’s a dream come true to be here and I can’t wait to get started with the team.”

Co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart added: “Moises has proved himself as a standout player in European football over the past 18 months, and we are thrilled to add him to Mauricio Pochettino’s squad. 

“Moises possesses a rare midfield skill set and is a player we’ve been targeting for some time. We believe he will make a significant impact at Stamford Bridge this season – and in the years ahead.”