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Losing Moises Caicedo would be a problem for Brighton’s chances of qualifying for Europe, says manager Roberto de Zerbi.
The midfielder, 21, told Brighton in an open letter he wanted a transfer after bids from both Arsenal and Chelsea.
Caicedo was told by the club to take time off until after Tuesday’s transfer deadline, meaning he was absent from Sunday’s 2-1 FA Cup win over Liverpool.
“I would like him to finish the season with us,” De Zerbi said after the win.
Brighton are sixth in the Premier League, five points behind fifth-placed Tottenham, but with two games in hand on Antonio Conte’s side.
“[Brighton chairman] Tony Bloom knows very well my opinion. We lost [Leandro] Trossard and if we also lose Caicedo it’s a problem for us if we want to fight for Europe,” De Zerbi said.
“If we don’t lose Caicedo we are ready to fight.”
The Seagulls, who sold Trossard to league leaders Arsenal for £21m plus add-ons earlier this month, have turned down a £60m bid from the Gunners for Caicedo, and also reportedly rejected an earlier £55m offer by Chelsea.
Before Sunday’s FA Cup meeting with Liverpool, the Brighton boss said Caicedo had made a “mistake” in asking to leave the club.
“For everyone there are many solutions. We will see the best solution for him and for us,” the Italian added.
The Ecuador international has made 26 appearances for Brighton in the Premier League, scoring twice, and is under contract until 2025.
