“And incidentally, yesterday I was told by a top source that Chelsea have placed Caicedo as their number one priority for midfield this summer. This has been approved by the decision makers and Pochettino, Chelsea want Caicedo and will move for him very soon.”

While Brighton boss De Zerbi admitted that his stars might nonetheless go away the Amex, regardless of securing Europa League soccer for subsequent season. “We can offer Moises and Alexis [Mac Allister] the opportunity to play in Europe,” he mentioned on Tuesday.

“Our level is bigger now. They are very good guys and it will help. I think for myself and the club but also for the players - they have one life and we can’t decide for them.”