Manchester City have set their sights on Chelsea defender Malo Gusto as the club prepares for life after Pep Guardiola.
Manchester City Join Race for Chelsea Defender Malo Gusto
Incoming manager Enzo Maresca wants to reunite with the French full-back, whom he coached extensively during his time at Stamford Bridge.
City expect a transitional phase following Guardiola’s departure. The former boss had already requested a new right-back before leaving, and the club now plans to fulfill that requirement under Maresca’s leadership.
Maresca knows Gusto well. The Italian coach spent considerable time developing the 21-year-old at Chelsea, using him primarily as a full-back but occasionally deploying him in midfield.
That versatility appeals to Manchester City as they look to strengthen their defensive options.
Matheus Nunes currently operates as City’s primary right-back after Guardiola successfully converted him from midfield into one of the league’s most effective full-backs.
However, the club wants to add competition for the position. Rico Lewis could depart if City receive a reasonable summer offer.
Chelsea will make any potential departure difficult. Gusto has a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge and has made over 130 appearances for the Blues. The London club holds significant leverage in negotiations.
City have also considered other Premier League-calibre options, including Pedro Porro and Newcastle’s Tino Livramento.
Alternatively, the champions could target an unproven young player like Atalanta’s Marco Palestra or Feyenoord’s Givario Read to serve as Nunes’ understudy.
But with Maresca at the helm, Gusto represents an ideal fit. The manager already understands how to maximise the Frenchman’s abilities, and reuniting at the Etihad could benefit both parties.
Whether Chelsea agree to part with their talented defender remains the key question.
