Chelsea have reached an agreement to sign Marco Palestra from Atalanta in a deal that could see Malo Gusto leave Stamford Bridge.
Gusto has been a regular option for every head coach since he signed from Lyon three years ago. The problem though, is that the Frenchman is always second choice to captain Reece James.
And according to recent reports, the 25-year-old may have the chance to secure more regular playing time with suggestions former boss Enzo Maresca — set to take over at Manchester City — would like a reunion.
Enzo Maresca wants Malo Gusto at Manchester City
Maresca worked with Gusto during his 18 months in charge of the Blues. The full-back was one of the Italian's most used players making 72 appearances in all competitions.
And according to talkSPORT, Maresca, who will succeed Pep Guardiola, would like his new club to bring Gusto to the Etihad too.
The right-back has four years left on his contract and would probably jump at the chance to join Maresca in Manchester following Chelsea's failure to qualify for European football next season.
Although the Citizens have a squad worth well over £1 billion, they're not blessed with quality right-backs.
Rico Lewis seems destined to move on after starting just four times in the Premier League, and even though Matheus Nunes did well last season, there are obvious upgrades available out there.
So, Maresca's desire to make a new right sided full-back his first signing at City will come as little surprise. The fact the 46-year-old already knows Gusto makes him a potentially suitable option.
Chelsea set Gusto price tag
And it seems the Blues don't have a problem with letting the Frenchman leave either.
With Xabi Alonso preparing to overhaul the squad, very few players are deemed untouchable, and Gusto is not one of them.
Believed to be open to letting the former Lyon man move on, the Blues have set their price at at least £40 million.
Chelsea paid £26 million for the defender three years ago so any sale of £40 million or more would represent a decent profit.
During his time at Stamford Bridge, Gusto, who currently earns around £56,000 per week, has scored three goals and provided 17 assists in 134 matches in all competitions.
The France international was part of the Chelsea squad that lifted the 2024-45 UEFA Conference League and 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
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