Manchester City revive Malo Gusto interest as club awaits potential Premier League punishment

Manchester City are preparing a major January move for Chelsea defender Malo Gusto despite waiting to discover the extent of a possible punishment linked to 114 alleged Premier League financial fair-play breaches.

City remain top of the Premier League table despite their recent defeat by Aston Villa. While the club attempts to keep the external noise surrounding the case at a distance, Enzo Maresca is already considering plans for the future.

According to Sport, citing reports from England, Manchester City have decided to renew their interest in Gusto and are expected to explore a deal for the 23-year-old during the next winter transfer window.

Maresca previously worked with Gusto during his time at Stamford Bridge a few months ago and is understood to be prepared to return to the negotiating table for the defender.

City are still awaiting a ruling that could have significant financial consequences. The eventual sanctions could even include a ban on registering new players. Despite that uncertainty, the club’s sporting department is continuing its work as normal and is expected to push ahead with transfer plans.

Reports published by Team Talk suggest Manchester City could attempt to complete an expensive deal for Gusto in January. The Premier League leaders are hoping Chelsea will reduce their valuation after taking a firm position during discussions between the two clubs in last summer’s transfer window.

Chelsea previously demanded no less than 83m euros (£70m) for the player. The London club set the same asking price for Gusto, who came through the academy at French club Olympique Lyonnais before establishing himself in the Premier League after three years with Chelsea.

The proposed fee would make the transfer one of the most expensive deals ever involving a right-back. Achraf Hakimi remains the world’s most expensive right-back, having moved to Paris Saint-Germain in 2020 for 68m euros.

English reports indicate that Chelsea’s financial demands for Gusto have fallen since the summer. However, City’s position continues to raise questions, particularly because the club may be seeking to complete new signings before any final punishment takes effect.

That situation could also influence the market. Other clubs may set higher asking prices for their players if they believe Manchester City are under pressure to conclude transfers before restrictions are imposed.