August 15 – Chelsea have taken their spending spree to a staggering $1 billion in 15 months under their American owners after smashing the British transfer record by signing Ecuador midfielder Moises Caicedo from Brighton for a reported £115 million.
The fee surpasses the £106.7 million Chelsea also paid for Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez in the January window.
Since taking control of the London club in May last year from Roman Abramovich, Chelsea’s ownership – fronted by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital – has spent $280 million on players in the 2022 summer transfer window, $350 million in the January window and now around $370 million, and counting, this summer.
Chelsea beat Liverpool to the signature of Caicedo, who only played one full season for Brighton after joining from Ecuadorian club Independiente del Valle in 2021
“Moises possesses a rare midfield skill set and is a player we’ve been targeting for some time,” Chelsea co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley said. “We believe he will make a significant impact at Stamford Bridge this season – and in the years ahead.’
Caicedo has signed a staggering eight-year deal, which continues Chelsea’s policy of handing out long contracts to amortise costs of transfer fees across the whole deal.
“I didn’t have to think twice when Chelsea called me, I just knew I wanted to sign for the club,” Caicedo said. “It’s a dream come true to be here and I can’t wait to get started with the team.”
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