Chelsea full-back Malo Gusto is keen on a move to Manchester City, according to reports, but the Blues' asking price for the full-back stands in the way of a deal. Still just 23 years old, Gusto has made 134 appearances for Chelsea since signing from Lyon in 2023. The right-back has also picked up 13 caps for France and is in the squad at the World Cup this summer.
Maresca's interest and City's transfer plans
Gusto certainly impressed his former manager at Stamford Bridge because Enzo Maresca now wants to bring him to Manchester City as he takes over at the Etihad. The Italian left Chelsea in January and is set to replace Pep Guardiola this summer at Manchester City, where there is likely to be significant investment in the playing squad yet again. Elliot Anderson is due to arrive from Nottingham Forest for £116 million, while Gusto is also on their shopping list as they look to strengthen at right-back.
Chelsea's valuation and contract situation
However, Chelsea have slapped a huge asking price of £75 million on the France international and that is putting Manchester City off a move. French publication Foot Mercato report that Gusto wants to make the switch, but City reportedly are not willing to match Chelsea's valuation. The 23-year-old remains under contract at Chelsea until 2030, on the same contract he signed after his £30.7 million move from Lyon three years ago.
Chelsea's alternative signing and Alonso's role
Chelsea have already agreed a deal for another right-back this summer, reaching an initial agreement with Atalanta over a €60 million (£51.6 million) deal to sign Marco Palestra. The Blues beat Inter Milan to the Italy international and have agreed a €57 million (£49.1 million) transfer fee plus an additional €3 million (£2.5 million) in add-ons, while Atalanta also have a 10 per cent sell-on clause. Palestra has agreed a five-year contract with Chelsea worth €5 million (£2.5 million) per season, a deal which doubled Inter's offer.
Incoming manager Xabi Alonso's plans with Palestra, Reece James and Gusto will affect the likelihood of an exit for the Frenchman. Alonso is still yet to officially start his role as Chelsea manager, with his four-year contract beginning on July 1. When his appointment was announced in May, he said: 'Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club. From my conversations with the ownership group and sporting leadership, it is clear we share the same ambition. We want to build a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level and fighting for trophies. There is great talent in the squad and huge potential at this football club and it will be my great honour to lead it. Now the focus is on hard work, building the right culture and winning trophies.'
