Chelsea full-back Malo Gusto is reportedly at the centre of major transfer speculation, with claims emerging that the 23-year-old has told Chelsea he is open to joining Manchester City this summer.
According to multiple reports in Germany and France, Gusto is understood to be attracted by the prospect of a new challenge at the Etihad Stadium, with discussions said to be accelerating behind the scenes.
The right-back is under contract at Stamford Bridge until 2030, but the growing interest from City has reportedly forced Chelsea into internal talks over his long-term future.
The situation has been fuelled by Manchester City’s need for defensive reinforcement in wide areas following a transitional period at the club. City are believed to be assessing several right-back options, with Gusto’s versatility, pace, and ability in possession making him an appealing profile for their evolving system.
CHELSEA, however, are not expected to make the deal easy. Reports suggest the club have placed a valuation in the region of £75 million on the French international, reflecting both his potential and his importance to the squad. That figure would also make him one of the most expensive full-backs in football history if met.
Gusto joined Chelsea from Lyon in 2023 and has steadily grown into a key rotational figure, often competing with club captain Reece James for the starting role. His performances in both domestic and international competitions have enhanced his reputation as one of the most promising young full-backs in Europe, even if his consistency has fluctuated during a turbulent period for the club.
Opinion: would Chelsea be right to sell?
This is a difficult decision. On one hand, Gusto is still only 23 and already offers top-level Premier League experience, making him a valuable long-term asset in a squad built around youth development. His athleticism and ability to cover large defensive spaces are particularly important in a team that has often been exposed in transition.
On the other hand, ***CHELSEA***’s squad planning under new head coach Xabi Alonso may influence the decision. Alonso is expected to refine Chelsea into a more structured, possession-based side, and squad balance could become a priority if multiple right-sided defenders are available.
Selling Gusto would bring significant financial gain, but it would also create a risk of weakening depth in a key position. Unless Chelsea are confident in a ready-made replacement, allowing him to join a direct rival like City would represent a major strategic gamble.
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