Alan Shearer gave a glowing verdict on Chelsea transfer target Moises Caicedo before the World Cup opening match against Qatar.

The 21-year-old has been one of the standout players for Brighton since making his debut in April and will be watched with intrigue by recruitment staff at Stamford Bridge. He signed for the Seagulls from Ecuadorian side Independiente in 2021 for just £4m but his Premier League performances this year have already seen him linked with a big-money move away.

Chelsea are one of the teams interested in buying him and have been given a boost on that front after securing former Brighton head of recruitment Paul Winstanley earlier this month. Graham Potter’s appointment at Stamford Bridge also strengthens the interest.

Speaking ahead of the game, Newcastle legend Shearer couldn’t be more positive when it comes to Caicedo, saying: “He’s going to be a top player and he could be one that really stands out. He’s only 21 and he’s the heartbeat of this young side.

“He made his debt two years ago and the manager asked him to man-mark Lionel Messi which tells you the trust he has in him. He can do a little bit of everything, he’s athletic, he can tackle, he can pass, he can read the game. Scores one or two goals.

“What’s also important is that he’s got a really good link-up with his Brighton teammate down the left-hand-side, Estupinian, and they’re strong down there. That’s one to keep an eye on, they understand each other’s game and link up well. That’s certainly one for us to watch tonight.”

Chelsea’s need for a revamp in midfield is a key area for Potter to address and he trusted the youngster with eight league matches last season. Caicedo had already made 25 appearances for his country before the World Cup and is one of the players to watch heading into the carnival of football.