Manchester City have been linked with a few Chelsea players in recent times. Perhaps that is to be expected. Enzo Maresca is set to take over from Pep Guardiola as their manager. And he will want to reunite with some of his favourites from Stamford Bridge if possible.
Enzo Fernandez has been suggested as an option. But it looks like they are more keen on Elliot Anderson. Marc Cucurella is also rumoured to be a target although a move to Spain looks more likely. And now, a third name has been added to the mix.
There are some players who simply did not impress last season. One of them is Malo Gusto. Yet, it looks like that has not stopped Manchester City from trying to make a move.
According to French outlet L’Equipe, Manchester City have recently inquired about the possibility of signing Gusto.
Manchester City interested in signing Malo Gusto
Of course, Maresca will know Gusto well. And he played a prominent role for the Italian manager in several matches.
The most famous might be his role in the Club World Cup final. While Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro might have gotten the headlines, Gusto’s role on the day was vital as well, as he did not let PSG settle into the game for a second.
So, it is unsurprising that Maresca might be keen on a reunion. And to be honest, it might be a move that Chelsea should consider as well.
Gusto simply did not look good enough last season. Perhaps things could be different in Xabi Alonso’s system. But if the Spaniard is not completely sure about the Frenchman, getting in a decent transfer fee for his departure would be the best route forward.
Malo Gusto was at his best when Mauricio Pochettino was Chelsea manager
Even though the performance vs PSG has already been mentioned, I never felt that Gusto was playing up to his best level under Maresca.
Instead, he might have been at his best under Mauricio Pochettino. That was his debut campaign for the club and the Frenchman looked like a marauding full-back going forward.
He simply never looked as good under later managers. And the defensive side of his game clearly is not good enough.
That is why I have some hopes that things could work out well for Gusto if Alonso decides to play with wing-backs rather than traditional full-backs. If not, a summer exit might be best for both parties.
