NEWS UPDAT: Chelsea identify Moises Caicedo transfer alternative who is available for just £20m.
Chelsea have identified Leeds star Tyler Adams as a potential alternative to Moises Caicedo this summer.
The Blues are desperate to sign Caicedo from Brighton in the transfer window but have found it difficult to negotiate with their Premier League rivals.
The Seagulls are demanding at least £100million – a fee that Chelsea have refused to meet so far.
And Mauricio Pochettino has eyed another midfielder who could act as an alternative – for a fraction of the price.
According to the Daily Mail, Chelsea are ramping up their efforts to prise Adams away from Leeds.
And due to a relegation clause in his contract, the United States international is available for a bargain £20m.
Aston Villa are among the other clubs interested in the midfielder but it is further reported that he would prefer a move to Stamford Bridge.
Adams only signed for Leeds last summer from RB Leipzig but does not want to spend a season in the Championship.
It means that a departure is likely on the cards while Chelsea are leading the race currently.
However, whether or not Adams is signed by the Blues, they still intend to purchase Caicedo as well.
They are not giving up their pursuit of the Ecuador international, though the arrival of Adams would help plug the gap in midfield.
Chelsea have seen Mateo Kovacic, N’Golo Kante, Mason Mount and Ruben Loftus-Cheek leave this summer while Jorginho left in January for Arsenal.
Adams made 24 appearances in the Premier League last season as injuries ravaged his campaign.
But the ex-New York Red Bulls ace, who can also play on the wing, is renowned for his tenacity and tackling ability.
With Pochettino desperate to sign a more defensive-minded player, Adams ticks the boxes.
Chelsea have already been splashing the cash this year after several high-profile departures including Mason Mount and Kai Havertz.
Robert Sanchez was signed from Brighton for £25m to provide competition in goal for Kepa Arrizabalaga.
