Manchester United and Manchester City are reportedly considering moves for Chelsea defender Malo Gusto, with the London club placing a £75 million valuation on the French international amid growing uncertainty over his future at Stamford Bridge.
The 23-year-old right-back has attracted attention from both Manchester clubs after struggling to secure a regular starting position under Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, with academy graduate Josh Acheampong increasingly preferred in the defensive pecking order.
Gusto, who arrived at Chelsea from French side Lyon in 2023, has previously established himself as one of the club’s promising young defenders. However, his reduced involvement this season has raised questions about his long-term prospects in west London and opened the door to speculation about a possible departure.
According to reports, Manchester United and Manchester City are monitoring the situation closely as they assess their defensive options ahead of the January transfer window.
Despite Reece James’ continued absence through injury, Gusto has struggled to reclaim a regular place in Chelsea’s starting XI. He has not started a Premier League match since September 12, while Acheampong has benefited from the opportunity to establish himself on the right side of Alonso’s defence.
The development represents a significant change for Gusto, who had previously enjoyed considerable playing time following his arrival from Lyon. His attacking qualities, pace and ability to contribute in both defensive and offensive situations made him an important option for Chelsea.
The Frenchman has made 144 appearances for the Blues across all competitions, scoring three goals, although his involvement in the current league campaign has become increasingly limited.
He has also featured in Chelsea’s Carabao Cup campaign, starting all three matches before the club’s fourth-round elimination against Liverpool following a penalty shootout.
His declining first-team opportunities have reportedly encouraged rival Premier League clubs to consider whether Chelsea could be persuaded to negotiate a transfer.
The situation could become more complicated because Manchester City have previously explored the possibility of signing the defender. Their interest is believed to have been influenced by Enzo Maresca, who worked with Gusto during his time at Chelsea before moving to the Etihad Stadium.
City view the Frenchman as a player capable of strengthening their right flank, particularly given his versatility, recovery pace and attacking contributions. However, their ability to pursue an expensive January signing could depend on the outcome of ongoing financial regulatory proceedings involving the club.
Manchester United, meanwhile, could also view Gusto as a valuable addition as they consider strengthening their defensive options. His ability to operate as both a conventional right-back and an attacking wing-back would offer additional tactical flexibility.
United’s reported interest comes amid uncertainty surrounding the club’s managerial situation, with Mauricio Pochettino reportedly emerging as the leading candidate to replace Michael Carrick. A potential managerial change could influence the club’s transfer priorities, particularly if the incoming coach wants to reshape the squad.
Recent reports have also suggested that Gusto is considering his future at Stamford Bridge and could be open to a new challenge if his opportunities do not improve. His representatives are reportedly assessing possible options ahead of the January transfer window.
Nevertheless, Chelsea are unlikely to allow the 23-year-old to leave cheaply. The defender remains under contract until 2030, giving the club considerable negotiating power. His £75 million valuation also represents a substantial increase on the approximately £26 million they paid Lyon to secure his services in 2023.
With Reece James’ injury record and the demands of competing across multiple competitions, Chelsea must also consider whether losing another experienced right-back would weaken their squad depth.
For Gusto, the coming months could prove decisive. At 23, he still has considerable room for development, but regular first-team football will be important if he hopes to maintain his progress and strengthen his position in the French national team.
Whether Manchester United or Manchester City eventually make a formal offer remains uncertain. However, with both clubs monitoring his situation and the defender reportedly considering his options, Chelsea could face an important decision when the January transfer window opens.
