Chelsea have had a third offer worth £80million rejected by Brighton for midfielder Moises Caicedo.
Brighton continue to demand £100m for the Ecuador international, who is the primary transfer target for the Blues.
Chelsea now face a decision whether to continue trying to drive down the price, meet Brighton’s demands or include Levi Colwill to tempt the Seagulls into a sale.
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They insist, however, that defender Colwill is not for sale at any price amid further interest from Manchester City and Liverpool following his loan spell at the Amex Stadium.
Pochettino believes the 20-year-old will become one of England’s “greatest centre backs” and the feeling is shared among the hierarchy in west London.
Caicedo, meanwhile, made his first preseason appearance for Brighton on Wednesday in the 2-0 win over Brentford in Atlanta.
Brighton are happy to keep their midfielder if the valuation isn’t met as they prepare for a first season playing European football.
