Manchester United have opted out of the race to sign Independiente del Valle midfielder Moises Caicedo this January.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has offered an update surrounding Manchester United’s pursuit of Moises Caicedo. The Independiente del Valle midfielder was courted by the Premier League giants, with the player himself keen on completing his dream move to Old Trafford.
However, it appears Manchester United have opted not to sign Caicedo, even though the club was in full control of the negotiations. It is believed that the young midfielder was not the priority target for the Red Devils, whose decision has opened the doors for a potential transfer battle, with many clubs interested in securing his services.
In fact, United’s Premier League rivals Chelsea have recently been linked with a move for Caicedo, who has rightfully attracted a lot of attention following his performances at Independiente. He is regarded as the next big thing in Ecuadorian football, after former Manchester United star Antonio Valencia, who has 325 Premier League appearances and two English league titles to his name.
As for United themselves, their decision to cede interest in the 19-year-old is rather surprising as the club has appeared quite intent on securing the services of young, talented players from South America. They had notably brought in Facundo Pellistri in the summer while being linked with a move for Facundo Medina in recent weeks.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30jWRoCf7U8
However, one could argue the fact that Manchester United are perhaps looking for a proven alternative as they prepare for life without Paul Pogba. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has also struggled in finding a capable backup for the Nemanja Matip and a good competitor for the young Scott McTominay.
Caicedo, in that regard, could have been a risky choice due to his lack of experience in Europe, let alone in English football. The fact that United have instead been linked with a move for Boubakary Soumare recently, provides a further hint that Solskjaer is indeed on the hunt for a more experienced and proven midfielder, who can add more quality to the side.
As for Caicedo himself, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for him and whether he will leave Independiente in this ongoing January transfer window. Chelsea’s supposed interest in the midfielder is rather exciting, although the Blues are more than guaranteed to face competition from other European rivals.
