Chelsea have placed a staggering £75 million price tag on defender Malo Gusto as the Frenchman considers his future at Stamford Bridge this summer.
From Lyon to £75m: Chelsea look to make huge profit on Malo Gusto
The 23-year-old right-back’s position at the club has come under renewed scrutiny after Chelsea agreed a deal in principle to sign Atalanta’s Marco Palestra for a fee exceeding £43m.
Palestra, who can operate on either flank as both a full-back and wing-back, is set to become new manager Xabi Alonso’s first signing.
Chelsea defender Malo Gusto is exploring his options to leave Stamford Bridge this summer with a £75m price tag currently placed on him. https://t.co/XyDdHoWXYS
— Nizaar Kinsella (@NizaarKinsella) June 24, 2026
Gusto joined Chelsea from Lyon three years ago for approximately €30m (£31m) and has since made 134 appearances for the club.
Despite his consistent game time, the French international has never quite managed to establish himself as an undisputed starter.
According to Daily Mail, Gusto’s representatives have already held exploratory talks with multiple clubs, including Manchester City.
A move to the Etihad would reunite the defender with former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, who is expected to succeed Pep Guardiola at City.
However, sources at Manchester City have distanced themselves from a move for Gusto, possibly due to the £75m valuation Chelsea have placed on the player.
While City are keen to strengthen at right-back and add competition for Matheus Nunes, Gusto is not considered a leading candidate at this stage of the transfer window.
Chelsea’s decision to set such a high asking price comes amid significant financial pressure.
The club finished 10th in the Premier League last season and missed out on European qualification, forcing them to generate funds through player sales.
Marc Cucurella has already departed for Real Madrid in a £52m deal, and several other defenders, including Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo and Wesley Fofana, could also follow.
The Blues are also demanding £120m if Real Madrid wish to sign midfielder Enzo Fernandez this summer.
While Chelsea are not actively looking to force Gusto out, the impending arrival of Palestra has inevitably raised questions about his long-term role.
The Frenchman remains a valued member of the squad, but with his representatives exploring options and a hefty price tag in place, a summer departure cannot be ruled out.
Whether any club will meet Chelsea’s £75m valuation remains to be seen.
Such a fee would make Gusto the most expensive wing-back in football history but in a market where transfer fees continue to skyrocket, the Blues appear willing to hold out for exactly that.
