Manchester City
Malo Gusto to Manchester City: what the latest report tells us
Manchester City and Bayern Munich have both made enquiries about Chelsea defender Malo Gusto after being alerted to the possibility that the right-back could become available this summer, according to TEAMtalk. The report landed on 1 June 2026 and has quickly gathered pace across the football press. Malo Gusto to Manchester City is very much the story of the moment.
The 23-year-old has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most highly-rated full-backs since arriving from Lyon in a £30.7 million deal in 2023, making over 130 appearances for Chelsea and earning a reputation as one of the most versatile defenders in European football. Gusto is capable of operating as a traditional right-back, wing-back or inverted full-back and is equally comfortable stepping into midfield areas during build-up play, qualities that have made him particularly attractive to clubs prioritising tactical flexibility.
Incoming City head coach Enzo Maresca holds a strong appreciation for the 23-year-old and views him as a versatile option who fits nicely into his system. That personal connection matters greatly here, given Maresca worked directly with Gusto at Stamford Bridge. However, Chelsea feel relaxed about City’s interest, and the London club could even offer Gusto a new and improved deal, with no current plans to sell. His market value currently sits at around €41.7 million, and he remains contracted until 2030.
What Chelsea should do about Malo Gusto to Manchester City interest
Chelsea‘s position actually makes sense, even if it frustrates the suitors. Gusto is likely to play an important role under new manager Xabi Alonso, whose expansive style suits a full-back comfortable with the ball. Selling him to a direct Premier League rival, especially one now led by a manager who knows him intimately, would be a strange act of generosity. Chelsea hold the stronger hand here, and they know it.
Also read: Inter Milan target Man City’s £60m star as Maresca reshapes squad
Why Malo Gusto to Manchester City suits Maresca’s rebuild?
From City’s side, the logic is straightforward. Rico Lewis made only 22 appearances across the 2025/26 campaign, and there is no guarantee his role becomes more significant under Maresca, who appears set to look to the transfer market for right-back reinforcements. Gusto offers attacking output, defensive discipline, and positional intelligence that few full-backs at his age provide together. The stumbling block is Chelsea’s firm stance rather than any shortcoming in the player himself.
Also read: Chelsea’s £100m star linked with Man City in shock swap deal
The smart move for Manchester City is to test Chelsea’s resolve with a serious offer above market value. For Chelsea, though, keeping Gusto, tying him to a better contract, and building around him under Alonso is the cleaner, stronger decision.