Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo, according to Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth.
The Lowdown: Caicedo's season so far
Prior to playing every minute of action for Ecuador in the World Cup, the midfielder had started all 14 of Brighton's Premier League games this season, showing how important he is for club and country.
In fact, the 21-year-old has completed the full 90 minutes in 12 of those 14 games, leaving only two outfielders at the Amex Stadium playing more minutes than him in 2022/23.
With the January transfer window on the way, the Ecuadorian has now found himself in the middle of a two-horse transfer race between two of the biggest clubs in the country.
The Latest: Liverpool interested in Caicedo
In a recent post on Twitter, Sheth shared the latest in the transfer race for Caicedo, who Brighton are 'under no pressure to sell' despite some high-profile interest.
The Sky Sports reporter tweeted: "Chelsea & Liverpool interested in Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo. No formal talks yet. Brighton don't want to sell mid-season, and are under no pressure to sell - contract until 2025. Joined Brighton – under Graham Potter - for £5m in February 2021. #BHAFC #CFC #LFC."
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The Verdict: He'd be a smart signing
In terms of what Caicedo has done for Brighton in the league this season, he has made more progressive passes (65) than any other player at the Amex. He also has the second-highest combined total of tackles and interceptions (62) at the club, highlighting how imperious he can be out of possession as well as on the ball.
His overall performances in the league this term have earned the midfielder a season rating of 6.91/10 from WhoScored, making him the Seagulls' joint-third highest rated player.
Having been described by journalist Jordan Cronin as being "one of the best players" who featured against Newcastle United in August, it's easy to see why Brighton have reportedly put a rather hefty price tag of £85m on their star midfielder.
Bearing in mind how Liverpool have four central midfielders in their squad set to see their contracts expire in the summer (including on-loan Arthur Melo), potentially bringing in Caicedo would be a smart move from the club, in our view.