Malo Gusto has given his personal agreement to join Manchester City this summer, according to Foot Mercato, as the Chelsea right-back looks to reunite with Enzo Maresca.
The 23-year-old worked under Maresca for around 18 months at Stamford Bridge before the Italian’s departure earlier this year, and City have moved quickly to test his willingness to make the switch. With Maresca expected to succeed Pep Guardiola at the Etihad, right-back has been identified as a priority position, with Rico Lewis having fallen down the pecking order last season.
Personal terms are understood not to be a stumbling block. The bigger challenge lies with Chelsea, who value Gusto at around £75m and have little appetite to strengthen a direct Premier League rival, particularly after missing out on European football following a 10th-placed finish. His contract at Stamford Bridge runs until 2030, handing Chelsea significant leverage in any negotiation.
Gusto joined from Lyon for around £26m in January 2023 and has made 134 appearances in all competitions, contributing three goals and 17 assists, including a Conference League triumph in 2024-25.
City’s business this summer has already gathered pace following the signing of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, and Gusto would represent a second statement addition as Maresca reshapes the squad. For now, the Frenchman’s focus remains on the World Cup, where France face Sweden in the last 32, with talks between the two clubs expected to accelerate once the tournament reaches its later stages.
