Arsenal to rival Chelsea in transfer race for Caicedo as Brighton star becomes Rice alternative for Gunners

• Ecuador star shining at Amex Stadium
• Big-money bids already lodged
• Arteta out to reinforce engine room

WHAT HAPPENED? The 21-year-old Ecuador international continues to catch the eye at Brighton, leading to plenty of admiring glances being shot in his direction. Chelsea were considered to be leading the chase for his signature, with the Blues seeing two bids over 55 million ($68m) knocked back.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Arsenal have already been beaten by Chelsea to deals for Joao Felix and Mykhailo Mudryk in 2023, but Standard Sport suggests those roles could be reversed in pursuit of Caicedo. Mikel Arteta remains eager to strengthen his engine room at Emirates Stadium, with a number of potential targets being considered.