Liverpool are believed to be eyeing a move for Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto at the end of the season, seeing him as a potential replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold.
It does feel as though Alexander-Arnold is the most likely of the Reds’ three superstars to move on next summer, along with Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah.
While the latter pair are in their 30s and arguably looking like signing extensions at Liverpool, it is easy to see the former’s head being turned by a high-profile move to Real Madrid.
Losing Alexander-Arnold would be an almighty blow for the Reds, considering the 26-year-old is among the most creative full-backs of his generation, and they will have to sign an elite successor if he does move on.
Speaking to Football Insider, former scout Mick Brown claimed that Gusto is seen as an option for Liverpool in 2025, following an impressive spell with Chelsea:
“Liverpool are putting plans in place for if they lose Trent Alexander-Arnold. They have to have these conversations about where they’re going to go to find a replacement. They’ve got Conor Bradley, who has done exceptionally well when called upon, and he’s going to be an important part of their plans.
“But Gusto is very highly rated, and he’s one their scouts have been keeping an eye on this season. He’s not a nailed-on starter at Chelsea, either, because when Reece James comes back from injury, chances are he’ll be straight back into the side. So that gives Liverpool the chance to offer him first-team football, and they’ll believe that could be enough to tempt him into moving. In that case, I can see them making a move for him come the end of the season.”
Our thoughts on Liverpool signing Gusto…
Alexander-Arnold remaining at Liverpool is easily the best outcome, but Gusto could represent a great option to replace him, should he move on to pastures new.
The 21-year-old has been a key member of a Chelsea side battling the Reds for Premier League title glory this season, starting 11 matches and bagging one assist.
Gusto would be a younger option than Alexander-Arnold, with the Frenchman five years his junior, so he should only develop as the years pass, being hailed as “fantastic” by Enzo Maresca.
It would still be a clear drop down in quality from Liverpool’s vice-captain, however, and if the Blues youngster did come in, it would hopefully be as a backup option alongside Conor Bradley.