Moises Caicedo is set to leave Brighton (Photo by Craig Mercer/MB Media/Getty Images)

Chelsea’s decision to reject Manchester United’s last bid for Mason Mount could backfire spectacularly, with the Red Devils now keen on competing for the signature of Blues target Moises Caicedo.

Mount was frustrated by Chelsea’s decision to turn down a third bid from United last Friday.

The offer was for around £50m, with a further £5m in add-ons. Chelsea rejected the bid, demanding £58m and a further £7m in add-ons instead.

United insist they will not increase their offer and that the last bid was their final offer for a player that’s out of contract in 12 months’ time.

Erik ten Hag does not want a repeat of last summer, when the bulk of his transfer business was conducted in the final weeks of the window.

If Chelsea do not budge on Mount, then the BBC say they will instead compete with Chelsea for the signature of Brighton star Caicedo.

United have had three bids rejected for Mount (Photo by Vincent Mignott/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

The Ecuador midfielder impressed against United last season, particularly in the Seagulls’ FA Cup semi-final defeat against the Red Devils at Wembley.

Chelsea had been the favourites to sign Caicedo, with some reports claiming the Blues had already agreed personal terms with the midfielder.

But Chelsea are unwilling to meet Brighton’s £80m asking price for Caicedo and that could open the door for United.

While United would be spending more on Caicedo than Mount, the player’s profile means they’re more comfortable with the outlay.

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