Chelsea are overseeing a busy summer in the transfer market after appointing Xabi Alonso as their new head coach
Malo Gusto has agreed to sign for Manchester City from Chelsea this summer, despite the clubs appearing to be far apart in their valuations. France international Gusto could join up with former Blues boss Enzo Maresca if he is appointed at the Etihad as expected.
While it is understood that Chelsea have put a £75million price tag on Gusto’s services, reports in France suggest that Gusto has sent positive signals to Manchester City’s hierarchy. The FA Cup holders are said to have made Gusto one of their top priorities to strengthen their right side.
City face competition from other sides but have little appetite to meet the Blues’ asking price as things stand. Chelsea’s Premier League rivals also had an interest in Marco Palestra before the west London side’s decisive move.
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Palestra is set to be confirmed as Chelsea’s first signing of the summer and will be added to Xabi Alonso’s vast options on the right side. The Spaniard will also be able to choose from Reece James and Josh Acheampong, ensuring Gusto is available at the right price.
James is Chelsea’s captain, while the club have also said that Acheampong is not available for sale this summer, leaving Gusto’s future at Stamford Bridge uncertain.
The French full-back was a favourite of Maresca during his time in London and played 72 times during his 18 months in charge. While he arrived at the club as a flying full-back down the flank, Maresca also utilised him to cut inside.
A £45m offer could prove enough for Chelsea to part ways with the defender, who is currently at the World Cup.
Speaking last summer, Gusto praised Maresca’s impact at Chelsea ahead of the Club World Cup final. ‘He’s a top coach and that’s why we’re in the final, because of him – that includes getting into the Champions League for next season,” he said.
“He created a good team, good energy between us, so we are very happy.
“He’s very detailed. He watches the team we face and focuses a lot on us, like how we’re going to build, how we’re going to press and the patterns we have to create between us. It helps us a lot.
“I think Maresca has added details – to think quickly, to defend together, to enjoy defending. Even many things about set-pieces. There are many details.”
Chelsea have already waved goodbye to Marc Cucurella this summer. The Spaniard signed for Real Madrid in a £51.8million deal after signalling his intention to move to the Bernabeu.
