Manchester United and Manchester City have emerged as potential suitors for Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto when the transfer window reopens in January.
The French international has found himself on the fringes of the first team this season, with Josh Acheampong and Marco Palestra preferred at right-back during Reece James’s injury absences. Earlier in the campaign, manager Xabi Alonso employed a wing-back system, yet Gusto still struggled for minutes as Pedro Neto was favored on the right flank for his superior attacking output.
Consequently, Gusto is keen to pursue a fresh challenge away from Stamford Bridge in the new year, and BBC Sport reports he has already conveyed this desire to the club’s hierarchy. TalkSPORT now claims United have joined Manchester City in monitoring the situation, though the reigning champions may hesitate to act while under investigation for alleged breaches of Premier League financial regulations.
City face the prospect of a significant points deduction and are reportedly planning no incoming transfers until the verdict is delivered. In the meantime, it remains to be seen whether the Red Devils will formalize their interest with a concrete approach.
Gusto, who offers versatility across left-back and central midfield, is unlikely to be permitted to depart for less than £75 million unless he submits a formal transfer request, which he has not yet done.
