Chelsea defender Malo Gusto is exploring options to leave Stamford Bridge this summer, with the club placing a £75m price tag on the full-back.
The 23-year-old right-back’s future has come under renewed doubt after Chelsea agreed a deal in principle to sign Atalanta’s Marco Palestra, who plays in the same position, for a fee in excess of £43m.
Gusto was aware his future was uncertain before that move, and sources have told BBC Sport that his representatives have held exploratory talks with multiple clubs, including Manchester City.
However, Chelsea are demanding in excess of £75m for the Frenchman.
City are keen on signing a right-back to compete with Matheus Nunes next season, but sources have told BBC Sport that, while there is interest in Gusto, he is not a leading candidate at this stage of the transfer window.
Any move to Etihad Stadium would mean Gusto reuniting with former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, whom he played under for 18 months before the Italian’s departure from Stamford Bridge in January.
Chelsea need to make significant player sales this summer after finishing 10th in the Premier League last season and missing out on European qualification.
Spain full-back Marc Cucurella joined Real Madrid this summer in a deal worth £52m.
The La Liga club are also interested in midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who they have pushed to the top of their shortlist following Jose Mourinho’s appointment at the Bernabeu.
Credit: bbc
