Xabi Alonso has already watched Marc Cucurella leave Chelsea, and he could now be forced to say goodbye to Malo Gusto as he eyes a reunion with Enzo Maresca.
Maresca is expected to succeed Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, and it is thought that he wants to bring Gusto to the Etihad.
A move to City is likely to appeal to the defender after Chelsea’s failure to qualify for the Champions League, but it may not actually be in his best interests.
Do you want to see Pep Chavarria, Marco Palestra or Jorrel Hato at left-back next season?
Chavarria didn't do a bad job in the Conference League final against Crystal Palace
Pep Chavarria's stats vs Crystal Palace
Photo by Kevin Voigt/GettyImages
Xabi Alonso could utilise Malo Gusto as a right wing-back
According to Foot Mercato, Gusto has agreed to join City, with the right-back keen to reunite with Maresca.
Gusto was an important player for Maresca during his time as Chelsea manager, but you cannot help but feel that Alonso may actually be able to get more out of the 23-year-old.
There is a possibility of Alonso using a back three at Stamford Bridge next season, which could really suit Gusto.
The Frenchman could offer a lot in the right wing-back role. He is pretty good at getting forward and crossing the ball into the box.
Chelsea supporters did not see too much of that last term, as Maresca used him as an inverted full-back. However, in his first season at Chelsea, he played as a more traditional full-back and managed to register nine assists in 37 appearances.
Malo Gusto with Head Coach Enzo Maresca of Chelsea
Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images
In the right wing-back role, Blues supporters could see the same kind of output again from the Frenchman.
Chelsea shouldn’t sell Malo Gusto to Manchester City
Chelsea could end up regretting selling Gusto to City if that deal does happen. He has been a reliable alternative to Reece James, who is still having injury issues.
Gusto could be needed again next season, though the imminent arrival of Marco Palestra is another solution to James’ injury problems.
Chelsea are set to sign Palestra from Atalanta to strengthen the right-back position, while the Italian can also play on the left.
It could pave the way for Gusto to join City, but selling to a direct rival whom you could be competing against next season makes very little sense.
Who knows how City are going to fare without Guardiola. The Spaniard’s departure could help Chelsea to move closer to the Citizens, so it would be counterproductive to sell an important player to them.
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