According to a report by Football London on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, former Manchester United defender Antonio Valencia has encouraged the club to pursue Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo as Michael Carrick considers strengthening his squad.

Valencia believes United need to improve their midfield options despite spending £50 million to sign Andrey Santos from Chelsea during the summer transfer window. Santos has reportedly struggled to make the expected impression since arriving at Old Trafford, raising concerns about the club’s recruitment decisions.

The Brazilian midfielder was among the players who departed Stamford Bridge during Chelsea’s summer restructuring under manager Xabi Alonso. However, his early performances at United have attracted criticism, with questions emerging over whether the club has secured the right players to address its midfield weaknesses.

Valencia has identified Caicedo as a potential solution, highlighting the Ecuadorian international as the type of player Manchester United should consider bringing into their squad.

“I’d sign another midfielder,” the former Manchester United right-back said. “I’d bring in a player like Moises Caicedo, keeping it local (laughs). And then I’d bring in a centre-back and a right or left full-back.”

Beyond the midfield, Valencia believes United should also strengthen their central defence and full-back positions to improve the overall balance of the team.

However, signing Caicedo would be a complicated task for the Manchester club. The 24-year-old recently signed a new contract with Chelsea and remains an important part of the London side’s long-term plans.

Chelsea invested heavily to secure his services and would be unlikely to consider selling him without receiving a substantial transfer fee. His importance to the squad makes a potential move to a Premier League rival particularly difficult.

Caicedo has previously attracted interest from Real Madrid, but his ambition remains to establish himself as a Chelsea legend. His commitment to the club has also been highlighted by transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano.

“Caicedo said I am a Chelsea player, under contract; I want to become a Chelsea legend,” Romano said.

Romano also indicated that the midfielder believes he still has significant achievements ahead of him at Stamford Bridge and wants to help Chelsea secure more trophies.

Manchester United’s need for greater quality and consistency in midfield makes Valencia’s recommendation understandable. Nevertheless, Caicedo’s contractual situation, importance to Chelsea and personal ambitions present major obstacles to any potential transfer.

For now, United may need to explore alternative targets if they intend to strengthen their midfield during an upcoming transfer window.