Overview
- Multiple outlets reported on Saturday that Malo Gusto or his representatives have given Manchester City the green light to approach Chelsea about a summer transfer.
- Manchester City remain interested in the 23-year-old right-back but have signalled they will not pay Chelsea’s reported £75 million asking price and expect talks to intensify after the World Cup if a compromise appears possible.
- Gusto’s contract at Chelsea runs until 2030 and the club have already signed Marco Palestra, factors that strengthen Chelsea’s negotiating position and could raise the price of any exit.
- Enzo Maresca’s prior working relationship with Gusto and his public praise for the defender are a key reason City are pursuing him, and Gusto’s late cameo for France in the World Cup quarter-final has kept formal negotiations on hold.
- If Chelsea holds to its valuation City are prepared to pursue other right-back options, but a post-tournament window and the player’s willingness to engage make a sale plausible if the two clubs find a middle ground.