After observing Chelsea's riveting draw with Liverpool on Sunday, it becomes abundantly clear why both Premier League giants were fiercely vying for the signature of Moises Caicedo from Brighton.  

The enthralling match offered an abundance of positives for both sides to glean, yet it was evident that they both suffer from a dire deficiency in the holding midfield department. And now it appears that Chelsea have finally secured their coveted acquisition.  

According to multiple media outlets, Chelsea are set to shatter the British transfer record after an astounding 115 million pounds ($146 million) deal has been agreed upon to sign Caicedo. The Ecuador star is scheduled to undergo a medical on Monday, paving the way for his eagerly anticipated move to Stamford Bridge.

Driving a hard bargain 

Brighton proved to be tenacious negotiators, resolute in their stance. They staunchly insisted that Caicedo, who was procured from Ecuadorian outfit Independiente del Valle for a modest sum of 4 million pounds in February 2021, would not be relinquished for anything less than 100 million pounds.  

Unyielding in their commitment, they rebuffed numerous lower offers from Chelsea, holding firm to their valuation of the talented midfielder. 

It's worth noting that Liverpool also submitted a bid amounting to 111 million pounds for Caicedo last Thursday. Regrettably, despite their earnest efforts, the Merseyside club failed to persuade the prodigious 21-year-old to embark on a journey to Anfield.  

All along, Caicedo has harbored a steadfast desire to join the ranks of Chelsea. After arduous negotiations with Brighton, the Blues have triumphantly reached an agreement, committing to a payment of 100 million pounds, supplemented by 15 million pounds in performance-related add-ons.  

An eight-year contract, coupled with an optional additional year, awaits the young talent as he prepares to embark on this new chapter of his career.

The perfect fit 

Chelsea's strategic vision entails forging a formidable midfield partnership between Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez, their sensational 107 million-pound buy from Benfica in January. Consequently, their manager, Mauricio Pochettino, will possess the distinction of marshaling the two most exorbitant players in the annals of British football. 

Caicedo's price tag reflects his immense worth and the transformative impact he can bring to Chelsea's midfield. As demonstrated by Fernandez's exceptional performance against Liverpool, it becomes evident that in order to unleash the creative prowess of the Argentine World Cup winner, he requires a stable presence by his side – a player who can assume a deeper role and provide protection.  

Caicedo's attributes align perfectly with this requirement. Possessing remarkable speed, unwavering tenacity and a commendable record of engaging in 376 contested duels for Brighton last season, the Ecuadorian exhibits a remarkable ability to excel in such a role.  

Moreover, his maturity and astute decision-making, which belie his tender age, further justify the substantial investment Chelsea have made in securing his services.