Caicedo parts with agent, Chelsea says future unaffected

Middlesbrough midfielder Moisés Caicedo has publicly announced he has parted company with his former agent, a move that briefly sparked transfer speculation but which Chelsea say will not affect the midfielder's future at Stamford Bridge. The 23 year old posted a statement on his social media account saying his contract with agent Manuel Sierra ended on August 14 and that he had "appointed people he can trust." The post was later deleted and reissued in edited form, and Chelsea officials have described the episode as an off-field administrative matter rather than a sign of imminent movement.

Club sources and people close to the player say Caicedo will be advised mainly by family and a sports lawyer for the time being. Chelsea view him as central to their project under manager Enzo Maresca; the club point to a long-term contract that runs until 2031 with an option for a further year as giving them control over his immediate future. Chelsea are also reported to be prepared to open talks on improved terms and a wage increase to reflect his status among the squad's top earners.

Caicedo's escalation into one of Europe's most sought-after defensive midfielders has been rapid since his...