Liverpool have not opened talks to sign Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo despite reports suggesting as much, according to journalist Ben Jacobs. 

The Lowdown: Liverpool linked with Caicedo

Earlier this week, it was claimed that the Reds had made an enquiry to Brighton over a potential transfer move for the Ecuadorian and are looking to speed things up to sign him.

The 21-year-old has also been linked with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Newcastle United as he continues to impress on the south coast.

Reports in the player's homeland (via DaveOCKOP) then alleged that Julian Ward and FSG had actually begun talks over a deal for Caicedo, but Jacobs thinks otherwise...

The Latest: Not so fast

In a recent Twitter post, Jacobs had this to say on the situation surrounding Caicedo.

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"Not a lot has changed in terms of how 'messy' a deal might prove. Historical interest doesn't mean anything active right now. Told, contrary to some reports, LFC have not opened any talks whatsoever with Brighton."

The Verdict: Liverpool should sign Caicedo

Caicedo's performances for Brighton in the league this season have proved why he is so highly sought after and why he reportedly has a price tag of £85m.

For example, having appeared in all 15 of the Seagulls' league games, the midfielder has made more progressive passes (68) than any other player at the club as well as having the highest combined total of tackles and interceptions (65) at Brighton.

 

The Ecuador international's overall performances for Brighton this season have earned him a season rating of 6.9/10 from WhoScored, making him the fourth-highest rated player at the club.

Hailed as an "outstanding" player by Curtis Woodhouse, Caicedo would certainly be a strong addition to Liverpool's midfield, as he has shown how useful he is in possession in terms of moving the ball forward as well as how impressive he is when trying to win the ball back for his side.

Moving forward, we feel that, despite Jacobs' recent update, the Reds should be working on a potential January deal for the midfield star.