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Chelsea ready to replace €90m star as scouting mission revealed
2 min read
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Chelsea are reportedly looking at possible right-back signings amid the uncertain long-term future of Malo Gusto.
The France international has been a mainstay in the Chelsea team since his arrival from Olympique Lyonnais in 2023, but he has fallen down the pecking order this season and it’s understood that a sale could be sanctioned next year.
Chelsea were willing to offload the 23-year-old if they received an offer worth around €90 million this summer, however interest from the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City never resulted in a direct approach, and Gusto eventually remained at Stamford Bridge.
His future at the club remains uncertain though, and it has been reported that Chelsea are open to reducing their asking price in 2027 as they seriously contemplate a sale.
Gusto remains happy at Stamford Bridge, but rumours suggest that his stance could change if opportunities continue to be limited over the coming months, with back-to-back Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain understood to be keeping a close eye on his situation in west London.
The Frenchman has only started five matches in all competitions so far this season and he has played just two minutes of action across Chelsea’s last three Premier League matches.
Chelsea have summer signing Marco Palestra, club captain Reece James and talented academy graduate Josh Acheampong as right-back options at Xabi Alonso’s disposal, while Pedro Neto has been used as a right wing-back to great success this term.
However, the west London giants are now exploring the right-back market in the event that Gusto departs. That is according to transfer reporter Dean Jones, who claims that Chelsea are sending scouts across Europe to unearth the next “elite-level” right-back talent.
Will Malo Gusto leave Chelsea in 2027?
Gusto’s current contract at Chelsea runs until 2030, which leaves the Blues in a strong negotiating position regarding a potential transfer fee.
Furthermore, the France international remains a useful squad player and his importance will increase tenfold if Alonso’s side are able to qualify for Europe next season, given the additional games that will be added to their fixture schedule.
However, it’s clear that he isn’t in Alonso’s preferred starting XI and with youngster Genesis Antwi impressing on loan at sister club Strasbourg, there is a strong argument to suggest that selling Gusto on a permanent deal may be in the best interest of everyone involved.
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