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Mauricio Pochettino has reportedly made Chelsea defender Malo Gusto one of his priority transfer targets as he prepares to take charge of Manchester United and strengthen a squad struggling to find consistency in the Premier League.
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The Argentine manager is keen on reuniting with the French right-back, having previously worked with him at Chelsea during the 2023-24 season, when the defender delivered an impressive nine assists across all competitions.
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Gusto’s future at Stamford Bridge has become uncertain following his reduced playing time under Xabi Alonso, with the 23-year-old managing just three starts in Chelsea’s opening 10 Premier League matches this season.
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Manchester United could face serious competition from Manchester City for the defender’s signature in January, with Chelsea reportedly demanding around £75 million for the French international despite his limited involvement this season.
November 13, (THEWILL) – Mauricio Pochettino has reportedly identified Chelsea defender Malo Gusto as a key transfer target for Manchester United as he prepares for a potential return to the Premier League.
Manchester United have emerged as contenders for the signature of the 23-year-old right-back, who could be reunited with Pochettino at Old Trafford if the Argentine completes his expected move to the club.
Pochettino managed Gusto during his one-year spell at Chelsea in the 2023-24 season, when Gusto established himself as an important member of the Chelsea squad.
He enjoyed an impressive spell under the Argentine manager, recording nine assists across all competitions during that season.
According to reports, the Red Devils are monitoring Gusto’s situation at Chelsea ahead of the January transfer window, with Manchester City also interested in securing his services.
Gusto has endured a frustrating time under Xabi Alonso, starting just three out of Chelsea’s first 10 matches in the Premier League.
Chelsea are understood to value the defender at around £75 million, a figure that could complicate negotiations with interested clubs.
Gusto joined Chelsea from French side Lyon in January 2023 in a deal worth approximately £30.7 million before returning to the Ligue 1 club on loan for the remainder of the season.
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He has since made 144 appearances for the Blues across all competitions, scoring three goals.
Man City are also expected to show interest in the French defender in the January transfer window with Enzo Maresca reportedly interested in reuniting with the Chelsea defender.
Meanwhile, Pochettino is expected to be announced as the new Manchester United coach before the weekend after Michael Carrick was sacked on Thursday.
The former Tottenham manager is already identifying new players to add to the side battling relegation in the Premier League.
Pochettino is expected to take charge of his first match against Liverpool after the international break at Anfield on November 22.
