Transfers
Maresca pushes for Gusto signing as City undervalues £75m ask
Manchester City director of football Hugo Viana is overseeing a push by incoming manager Enzo Maresca to sign 23‑year‑old French right‑back Malo Gusto, but the club’s internal valuation sits far below Chelsea’s £75 million asking price, creating a major price gap.
Malo Gusto is described as an attack‑minded, technically refined right‑back whose style fits the system Maresca plans to implement at the Etihad Stadium. The 23‑year‑old France international’s profile aligns with the tactical profile sought by the incoming manager.
Sources close to Gusto indicated the player would be open to a move to Manchester City, adding momentum to the club’s interest. Gusto’s representatives have already held preliminary talks regarding a potential transfer.
According to Sun Sport’s Jack Rosser, City’s recruitment also includes a look at Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, suggesting a broader interest in the London club’s squad. The report links the Fernandez angle to Maresca’s desire to shape the team before his formal appointment.
Chelsea maintains a firm £75 million asking price for Gusto, a stance that coincides with an ongoing legal dispute between the clubs over Maresca’s departure from Stamford Bridge. The fee issue adds a further layer of complexity to any direct negotiations.
Viana has shown little reluctance to act quickly when a target is identified as a genuine priority, even though a £75 million outlay would be significant for Manchester City’s summer rebuild. The valuation gap remains the primary obstacle to finalising the deal.
Whether Manchester City will bridge the price difference, explore alternative right‑back options, or pursue both Gusto and Fernandez simultaneously remains uncertain. Maresca’s personal enthusiasm for the Frenchman suggests the pursuit will not be abandoned solely because of Chelsea’s opening ask.