Chelsea have reportedly set a £75 million valuation on Malo Gusto as the French right-back considers his long term future at Stamford Bridge, with Manchester City among the clubs monitoring the situation closely ahead of a potentially busy summer transfer window.
The 23 year old, who arrived from Lyon in 2023 for a fee in the region of £31 million, has seen his role at Chelsea come under renewed scrutiny following a series of recruitment decisions that could reshape the club’s defensive structure. While still regarded as a talented and modern full-back, Gusto is understood to be assessing his options as competition for places increases significantly.
Chelsea’s decision to place a high price tag on the player reflects both his perceived potential and the club’s broader financial strategy as they continue a major squad overhaul. With new defensive arrivals being lined up, including the anticipated signing of Atalanta right-back Marco Palestra, internal competition for starting roles is expected to intensify further next season.
Gusto’s situation has therefore become one of the more closely watched developments in Chelsea’s transfer planning. While the club are not actively pushing him toward the exit, they are open to considering substantial offers if they align with their valuation, particularly as they look to balance squad depth with financial sustainability.
Born in Décines Charpieu in France, Gusto rose through the Olympique Lyon academy system, one of the most respected youth development structures in French football. His early career was defined by technical precision, explosive pace, and an attacking mindset that made him stand out among his peers. At Lyon, he quickly progressed through the ranks, earning first team opportunities as a teenager and showcasing a maturity beyond his years.
His performances in Ligue 1 attracted attention from several top European clubs, with Chelsea ultimately securing his signature as part of their long term investment in young talent. The move to the Premier League marked a significant step in his development, exposing him to a faster, more physical style of football and higher tactical demands.
Since joining Chelsea, Gusto has demonstrated his ability to adapt to English football, contributing both defensively and offensively from the right flank. Known for his overlapping runs, accurate crossing, and stamina, he has provided width and attacking support in multiple tactical setups. However, Chelsea’s ongoing squad rotation and frequent managerial adjustments have meant that consistency in selection has been a challenge for many players, including Gusto.
Manchester City are now among the clubs monitoring his situation. The Premier League champions are exploring right-back options as part of their long term squad planning, with a focus on players who can offer technical ability, positional intelligence, and tactical versatility. Gusto’s profile aligns with these requirements, although City are reportedly cautious about the current valuation placed on him.
City’s interest is also shaped by their evolving tactical structure, where full-backs are expected to contribute heavily in midfield buildup phases. This hybrid role demands not only defensive awareness but also comfort in possession and the ability to operate in tight spaces. Gusto’s development at Lyon and Chelsea has shown progress in these areas, making him a viable candidate for systems that require multifunctional defenders.
The situation is further complicated by Chelsea’s own restructuring strategy. The club’s leadership is actively reshaping the squad following an inconsistent season that failed to deliver European qualification. This has prompted a reassessment of squad balance, with both incoming and outgoing transfers expected across multiple positions.
Chelsea’s financial planning also plays a role in the valuation of players such as Gusto. Having invested heavily in young talent across recent transfer windows, the club are now in a phase where player sales may be necessary to maintain balance and fund further reinforcements. As a result, high value assets are being carefully assessed in terms of both sporting contribution and market opportunity.
Despite transfer speculation, Gusto remains under contract and is not believed to have submitted a formal request to leave. However, representatives have reportedly begun exploring interest from top European clubs to better understand potential opportunities should Chelsea decide to open the door to negotiations.
His potential departure would form part of a wider reshaping of Chelsea’s defensive line. The club have already seen movement in the transfer market, and further changes are expected as they attempt to build a more stable and tactically balanced squad ahead of the new campaign.
At this stage, Manchester City have not made a formal offer, but their continued monitoring suggests that Gusto remains on their shortlist. Other Premier League and European clubs are also believed to be tracking the situation, although Chelsea’s £75 million valuation could prove a significant barrier to negotiations.
For Gusto, the coming weeks may prove decisive as he evaluates his role within Chelsea’s evolving system and considers whether a move elsewhere could provide more consistent playing opportunities at the highest level.
As the summer transfer window develops, the right-back’s future is expected to remain a key talking point in Chelsea’s broader squad overhaul, with his situation closely linked to incoming signings and the club’s long term tactical direction.
