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Chelsea have reportedly placed a hefty £75 million valuation on Malo Gusto as the defender assesses his future away from Stamford Bridge this summer. The French full-back is said to be exploring potential moves, while the Blues prepare for another major squad rebuild.

Chelsea set high asking price for Gusto

The 23-year-old right-back, who joined Chelsea from Lyon in 2023 for around £31 million, now faces uncertainty about his position following recent transfer decisions by the club’s management. In response to growing interest in the player, Chelsea have outlined a £75 million price tag to ward off suitors or ensure a substantial profit should he depart.

The situation has escalated following Chelsea’s agreement in principle to sign Atalanta defender Marco Palestra for a fee believed to be just over £43 million. With the arrival of a new specialist right-back, Gusto’s representatives have started engaging with several top European clubs to measure interest in a summer transfer.

Manchester City monitoring developments

Among the clubs linked with Gusto are Premier League champions Manchester City, who are reportedly evaluating options to strengthen their right-back department. A potential move to the Etihad Stadium would reunite Gusto with former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, under whom he played for 18 months before the Italian coach’s departure in January.

City’s interest, however, may be tested by Chelsea’s £75 million valuation. According to BBC reports, the price could prove a stumbling block for the Manchester club. Matheus Nunes, who successfully transitioned from midfield to right-back last season, contributed one goal and seven assists in the Premier League — a conversion that earned praise from former manager Pep Guardiola, who described him as one of the most promising right-backs in England. Despite this, City are still looking for a younger, natural option for the role.

Financial constraints driving Chelsea’s decisions

The decision to attach such a high price tag to Gusto also comes amid Chelsea’s financial challenges. Following a disappointing 10th-place finish last season and the absence of European football, the club is under pressure to generate revenue through player sales. Earlier this summer, Marc Cucurella completed a £52 million move to Real Madrid as part of the club’s efforts to balance the books.

The restructuring is expected to continue, with several senior defenders potentially facing uncertain futures. Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Wesley Fofana are among those who could be affected as the Blues aim to streamline their squad while targeting reinforcements in key areas.

Competition intensifies at Manchester City

Although Manchester City have dismissed the current £75 million figure as excessive, they remain active in the transfer market. The club has ruled out moves for Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento, while Tottenham’s Pedro Porro has reaffirmed his commitment to Spurs, narrowing City’s list of potential targets.

Meanwhile, Trevoh Chalobah could also be set for a departure from Chelsea. The defender has drawn attention from Serie A side Como, managed by former Blues midfielder Cesc Fabregas. Reports suggest Chalobah is open to the move, though the cost of the transfer may discourage the Italian club from pursuing a formal bid at this stage.