The 21-year-old Ecuador international had also been a target for Premier League rivals Liverpool, who on Friday agreed a reported record £$110 million fee with Brighton.

But it became clear over the weekend that Caicedo preferred a move to Chelsea and will join the West London club on an eight-year contract, according to the reports.

Chelsea, who drew 1-1 with Liverpool in their Premier League opener on Sunday, hope Caicedo will be available for next weekend’s trip to West Ham United.

He could line up in Mauricio Pochettino’s team alongside Enzo Fernandez, who cost what was then a British record £107 million when he joined from Benfica earlier this year.

Caicedo was left out of Brighton’s squad for their season-opening 4-1 win at home to Luton Town on Saturday.