Moises Caicedo branded an ‘idiot’ over failed Arsenal transfer

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 23 May 2023 09:09 CDT
• 3 min read

Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo has been called an “idiot” for his actions over the last few days of the January transfer window, during which he has seen a move to Arsenal fall through.

The Ecuador international star, who is 21, has been involved in a month-long wrangle over his future.

Chelsea were first to register an interest in Caicedo but Arsenal soon followed up and were close to capturing him, only for Brighton to resist their advances.

MORE: 'Should have paid for Caicedo' - Arsenal fans react to Jorginho rumour

In trying to push a move through, though, the midfielder took to social media to post what was in effect a goodbye message to fans of the Seagulls.

From there, he was put on leave by the club, with that set to end on Wednesday once the transfer window is over.

Deadline Day: Every confirmed transfer around Europe

Caicedo slammed

His actions in trying to engineer a move, though, have not impressed former England international and Premier League winner Chris Sutton.

“Moises Caicedo is either being very badly advised or he's an idiot,” the ex-striker told The Daily Mail. “That social media post was downright stupid.

“He's seen what Leandro Trossard did to get to Arsenal and he's copying him.

“But Brighton have every right to be standing firm on their £80m valuation.”

Brighton appear to have won this transfer battle with the Premier League big guns, with the AmEx Stadium side poised to achieve their best season ever. Sixth in the standings, European football is not out of the question for the Seagulls, who are only eight points behind fourth-placed Man Utd with a game in hand.

Arsenal are not expected back in for Caicedo before the end of the window and have instead turned their attentions towards Chelsea midfielder Jorginho, who is expected to be something of a stop-gap signing while they battle injuries to Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny in the centre of the park.