Chelsea fullback Malo Gusto is “not a leading candidate” to strengthen Man City’s options at right-back, according to the BBC.
The Cityzens have been linked with a move for the Frenchman, who worked under prospective new head coach Enzo Maresca for eighteen months at Stamford Bridge.
However, Gusto is not deemed the top target by the Manchester club, with Director of Football Hugo Viana seemingly prioritising other options.
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It is believed that City were also interested in Marco Palestra, but he is set to replace Gusto, with Chelsea having agreed a £43m fee with Atalanta for the Italian international.
Gusto’s price tag is excessive
City did reportedly hold talks with the 23-year-old agents. He is aware that he doesn’t have a future with Chelsea, so his representative is said to have held conversations with several clubs.
However, multiple sources have now confirmed that Gusto’s asking price is £75m, and that is clearly not a figure that the Cityzens are willing to pay.
Who could Man City sign instead?
With Palestra off the market and Gusto not under consideration, some would assume that the club would reignite their interest in Newcastle’s Tino Livramento.
The England international was the priority to replace Kyle Walker last summer. However, the BBC have verified reports from elsewhere that Livramento is no longer being pursued.
That leaves Viana with a reduced list of potential candidates to reinforce the right-hand side of defence. Feyenoord’s Givairo Read is probably the most likely alternative.
City have been tracking the Dutchman since last year, and he would cost a lot less than Gusto (or even Palestra). The right-back area is one that badly needs strengthening, so fans should expect an arrival in that position sooner rather than later.
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