Man City enquire about Chelsea defender Malo Gusto | OneFootball

Manchester City have enquired about signing Chelsea defender Malo Gusto, according to L’Equipe.

The France international has worked with incoming City boss Enzo Maresca at Chelsea, and he may want to take him to the Etihad Stadium.

Gusto recorded three goals and five assists in 49 appearances last season.

Despite being susceptible when covering the back post, he can more than hold his own defensively, especially in one-on-one situations.

He was initially poor at it when inverting, but Maresca helped him understand the position, and he was excellent at executing what was required of him. 

Man City have been looking for a right-back with Rico Lewis struggling for form. Former manager Pep Guardiola converted Matheus Nunes, a natural midfielder, into a right-back. 

While he has been serviceable, City could use a specialist in that position, especially one who knows the manager’s tactical set-up.

They pursued Newcastle United’s Valentino Livramento for a while, but it doesn’t seem like they are making headway on that front, hence the turn to the Chelsea ace.

However, Chelsea would be foolish to let Gusto go, despite his shortcomings. He had a poor 2025/26 season, but he can bounce back under Xabi Alonso’s guidance.

James cannot be trusted to stay fit for a whole season, and Gusto showed in his first two campaigns at Chelsea that he can more than deputise for him.

He has all the tools to be a complete wing-back. His energy down the right can be a weapon for the Spaniard. 

Chelsea may lose Marc Cucurella, and it would not be the wisest choice to let another left-back leave. The Blues should be trying to tie Gusto down to a new deal.