Chelsea reportedly have a battle on their hands to retain the services of one of their star players.
Since the arrival of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital as co-owners, in excess of £1bn has been invested on new players in an effort to turn the club into Premier League title contenders.
However, now sitting in sixth position in the Premier League table, Chelsea face a battle to secure European football for 2025-26, never mind in the Champions League.
With uncertainty surrounding their position with the Premier League's and UEFA's financial regulations, it is not beyond the realms of possibility that a major sale could have to be made during the summer transfer window.
According to The Telegraph, Chelsea may be presented with the opportunity to cash in on a player valued in the region of £100m and realistically upwards.
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Caicedo to be handed Saudi chance?
The report alleges that Saudi Pro League giants Al-Nassr are interested in spending big on Moises Caicedo in one of the upcoming transfer windows.
When signing the Ecuador international from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2023, Chelsea committed to a deal that could rise to £115m if all add-ons are activated.
Caicedo has since made 80 starts and five substitute outings, further enhancing his reputation as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world.
Nevertheless, it is claimed that Al-Nassr - who have Cristiano Ronaldo on their books - view the 23-year-old as their 'dream target' for that position.
Al-Nassr have already paid over the odds for one South American star this year, shelling out £64m to sign Colombian forward Jhon Duran from Aston Villa during the winter transfer window.
They are now said to be eager to secure a high-profile player for their engine room, Caicedo seemingly ticking every box on that front.
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Will Chelsea budge?
Aside from Cole Palmer, there is an argument that Caicedo is Chelsea's most important player. Furthermore, he holds a contract at Stamford Bridge until 2031.
That said, Boehly and Clearlake Capital know that they have to comply with the relevant regulations in the long term and selling Caicedo would help achieve that.
The obvious downside is the backlash that it would create with supporters, yet Chelsea may only consider a sale if the player expresses a desire to earn more money in the Middle East.
Darren Plant
