Chelsea: Malo Gusto deal ‘pretty close’

Chelsea are now ‘pretty close’ to completing a deal to sign Lyon defender Malo Gusto, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

The Lowdown: Second offer prepared

The Frenchman has entered the final 18 months of his contract at the Groupama Stadium, and having not yet put pen to paper on fresh terms, his future is up in the air.

Fabrizio Romano recently reported that Graham Potter’s side were still in contact regarding a move for the 19-year-old after seeing their opening offer rejected, with the player having already agreed personal terms to make the switch to the Premier League.

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has since publicly stated that the right-back won’t be leaving the club this month, but the Italian reporter has claimed that the Blues are ready to return with an improved proposal regardless.

The Latest: Gusto deal ‘close’

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Phillips revealed that whilst Chelsea and the Ligue 1 giants haven’t settled on a fee, the transfer for Gusto appears to be at its final negotiating stages.

He stated: “So, this one’s pretty close now. The fee has not been agreed yet, but personal terms with the player have been agreed. He’s really keen, he wants it done.”

Should Chelsea go all out for Gusto?

Yes

No

The Verdict: James alternative

Reece James has been very injury-prone this season, so Chelsea need to sign a suitable alternative at right-back, and Gusto seems the ideal player to come in and be just that.

The Lyon full-back is currently averaging 2.1 tackles and 1.9 crosses per league game, highlighting his ability to have an impact on proceedings both defensively and offensively (WhoScored). Notably, that is level with James’ tackling average and almost twice as many crosses per match (WhoScored).

The French teenager also has the versatility to play higher up in midfield, in addition to his natural right- back role, which would makes him a useful option to have for the tactically flexible Potter at Stamford Bridge.

Gusto’s form has recently seen him dubbed a ‘very dangerous’ player going forward by journalist Bobby Vincent, so it would be a massive coup if Todd Boehly could get this deal over the line in the final week of the January transfer window.