Asked about Chelsea’s pursuit of Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino said: “I think you know me very well – I never talk about players that do not belong to us. I am so respectful.

“I can tell you that we are working really hard to try to add more players to the squad. Like any club, we are working hard to try to add more quality, to reinforce the squad.

“It’s obvious [that we are looking to sign more players] because when you look at the squad and compare it with last season, too many midfielders left the squad.

“We are working hard to try to see, but it’s important to be respectful. That is the way I love to work and the way we need to work together at the club.”

Caicedo only wants to join Chelsea despite Brighton accepting Liverpool’s offer.