Manchester United are serious contenders to secure the signature of Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo, according to The Athletic.

The website has labelled the Red Devils as a “bigger threat” to Chelsea’s plans to sign the Ecuadorian international than either Arsenal or Newcastle.

It is a surprising claim, especially considering the fact that a number of sources in the English media have suggested that the Gunners are expected to table a bid for Caicedo.

From United’s perspective, though, it is an interesting development, and it appears manager Erik ten Hag is very keen on recruiting a high-profile midfielder.

Caicedo won’t be available on the cheap but United do have one advantage

After losing Alexis Mac Allister to Liverpool for a rather modest sum, Brighton are expected to hold out for quite a bit more to sell Caicedo this summer.

The Athletic claim that the Seagulls will want at least £70m for the 21-year-old, but other reports have put the asking price as high as £80m.

Caicedo is, though, keen on playing in the Champions League and that would give United some leverage in negotiations, especially if the other major suitor does turn out to be Chelsea.

United’s transfer budget is pretty limited

One big concern is that the Red Devils have a limited amount of money to play with. Even if the club’s ownership situation is resolved soon, it is believed that manager Erik ten Hag will only have £120m to spend on new signings due to FFP.

That figure can, of course, be increased through player sales, but it does mean that if United do spend £70m-£80m on Caicedo, only a limited amount would be left over to recruit a new number nine.

With that being the case, we shall have to wait and see whether the Manchester club do step up their interest in the Brighton star.