CHRIS SUTTON has ripped into Moises Caicedo and his team amid the Brighton midfielder’s transfer saga with Arsenal.
The Ecuadorian, 21, attempted to force through a move to the Emirates last week with a lengthy social media post pleading with the Seagulls to let him go.
ReutersMoises Caicedo is keen to leave Brighton in the January window[/caption]
Chris Sutton has been left thoroughly unimpressed by Caicedo’s actionsKenny Ramsay – Commissioned by The Sun Glasgow
Despite Caicedo‘s position, Brighton have stood firm and rejected Arsenal‘s advances – the latest of which was a £70million bid on Monday.
With the January transfer window closing on Tuesday evening, time is running out for the South American if he is set on leaving this month – with Brighton holding out for £80m.
And, as Arsenal prepare a third bid of £75m, former Premier League striker Sutton has criticised Caicedo for conducting himself poorly.
Speaking to The Mail, he said: “Moises Caicedo is either being very badly advised or he’s an idiot”.
Sutton then went on to add: “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.”
Sutton’s comments come after Caicedo’s Instagram post in which he begged the Brighton board to accept Arsenal’s original £60m offer.
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He said: “I am grateful to Mr. Bloom and Brighton for giving me the chance to come to the Premier League and I feel I have always done my best for them. I always play football with a smile and with heart.
“I am the youngest of 10 siblings from a poor upbringing in Santa Domingo in Ecuador.
“My dream always to be the most decorated player in the history of Ecuador.
“I am proud to be able to bring in a record transfer fee for Brighton which would allow them to reinvest it and help the club continue to be successful.
“The fans have taken me into their hearts and they will always be in my heart so I hope they can understand why I want to take up this magnificent opportunity. ”.
Chelsea are also understood to be circling for Caicedo as clubs head into the final day of negotiations.
Brighton have told their midfielder to stay away from training until after Tuesday’s deadline.