Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, and others are tracking 19-year-old Lyon right-back Malo Gusto, with approaches expected next summer.
According to 90min, there is considerable interest coming from Premier League in Lyon defender Malo Gusto. Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United are among the suitors for the 19-year-old right-back, whose contract with the Ligue 1 outfit expires in 2024.
Ligue 1’s stock continues to rise as the league keeps producing some of the top defensive prospects in the continent. Lyon, in particular, have been slightly off bringing up young talents recently, but they have a gem in Malo Gusto.
The attacking full-back has seen his stock rise recently as he continues to play regularly for the Ligue 1 giants. Gusto’s breakthrough campaign was in 2021/22 when he played 30 times for Lyon. This term, he has appeared in nine games, providing one assist.
The 19-year-old is a versatile player. But his attacking style stands out and is the feature why many top clubs like Barcelona and Manchester United considered signing him in the summer. Lyon did not entertain approaches as they are keen to tie him down for the long term.
Gusto’s current deal expires in 2024, with Lyon hopeful of handing him a new contract. However, with tremendous interest coming from the Premier League, the Ligue 1 giants may have a huge task convincing the 19-year-old to stay put.
Arsenal are keen, as Mikel Arteta was looking for an attacking right-back last summer. They only have Cedric Soares who truly plays that role. But the Portuguese international does not have a long-term future at the club. Ben White has been Arsenal’s starting right-back this term, but he remains a central defenders by trade.
Chelsea are also interested, although the Blues are well-stocked in the position. But with Cesar Azipilicueta on the wrong side of 30, Gusto could be a long-term replacement. However, with Reece James signing a new deal, it is not easy to see Chelsea prioritising a move for the 19-year-old right-back.
The biggest party of the lot could be Manchester United. The Red Devils are seriously looking for a different right-back option in the market. Diogo Dalot is their current choice, but his backup, Aaron Wan Bissaka, has an uncertain future at Old Trafford.
Even Dalot’s contract situation could enter a critical phase, and the Red Devils will need a long-term option in the position. Gusto could be a good option for how Erik ten Hag likes to play. Hence an approach for the Lyon right-back could be on the cards. Meanwhile, Manchester United could also entertain offers for Dalot in the future.
For now, Lyon are hopeful of extending Gusto’s stay. But if one of his suitors makes an offer, it may not be easy to keep the 19-year-old.
