Right-back search hits familiar wall
Manchester City's summer recruitment under Enzo Maresca has a new target, but the asking price is proving problematic.
According to The Athletic, City are big admirers of Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto. The 23-year-old France international fits the profile Maresca wants: quick, aggressive, technically clean and comfortable in advanced areas.
The Italian knows Chelsea's squad well from his time at Stamford Bridge, which may explain why City's recruitment team keep looking at players from that squad.
But admiration only gets you so far.
The Independent report that Chelsea are demanding around £75 million for Gusto, with City among the clubs interested. That figure looks likely to push City towards other targets — though the same report suggests options that genuinely appeal are thin on the ground.
Maresca factor adds layers
Selling a young full-back to a direct rival was always going to be a difficult call for Chelsea. Reece James has had injury issues, so Gusto is more than just a backup.
Unless City make an offer Chelsea cannot refuse, this feels like a chase that could end with Maresca looking elsewhere. Reuters reported that Maresca was appointed on a three-year deal after City agreed compensation with Chelsea, replacing Pep Guardiola ahead of the new season.
The profile is right. The price is not.