Manchester United target Moises Caicedo is ‘more likely’ to join than Frenkie de Jong, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The Red Devils were linked with both midfielders throughout the summer but were unable to sign either player as they remained at Brighton and Barcelona, respectively.

What is the latest news involving Man Utd?

A report from Sky Sports last month revealed that United were ‘interested’ in snapping up Caicedo after he made a fast start to life as a Brighton player.

The 20-year-old has previously declared that it is his ‘dream’ to play for the 20-time English champions after taking inspiration from his compatriot Antonio Valencia.

“My dream is to play for Manchester United. Antonio Valencia is an example to follow,” the Ecuador international said in an exclusive interview with The Athletic.

“With his strength and dedication, he was able to get to that level. That motivates me to keep working hard and do the right things.”

Ex-Brighton manager Graham Potter stated that it could cost Caicedo’s potential suitors up to £100m to prise him away from the Amex Stadium, though, and he is unlikely to be short of options.

What has Jones said about Caicedo?

Jones believes that Caicedo is a more realistic option for United when the transfer window reopens for business as De Jong is currently thriving at Barca having rejected a move just a few weeks ago.

He told GiveMeSport: “Frenkie De Jong, obviously, was the player we thought would be coming in initially, but it seems firmly out of sight at the moment.

“He looks so happy at Barcelona; things are going well for him there. So, at this point, maybe you can say Caicedo’s at least more likely than Frenkie De Jong.”

How well is Caicedo playing this season?

Caicedo has scored one goal in his six Premier League games so far this season, playing a pivotal part in Brighton’s impressive start to the campaign.

As per WhoScored, the South American star has also averaged 2.7 tackles and 1.8 interceptions per top-flight fixture, placing him in the top two for both metrics amongst his teammates.

The youngster’s next task will be to maintain this form over an extended period of time, proving he has the ability to make it at the highest level.

If Caicedo can do exactly that, then United will surely be tempted to revive their interest in him sooner rather than later, strengthening Erik ten Hag’s midfield options even further.