Report: Chelsea prepare to bid for Newcastle target Malo Gusto

Add as preferred source on Google

Chelsea have reportedly joined Newcastle United in the race to sign Malo Gusto, and are preparing a bid for the 19-year-old.

That is according to the Telegraph, who state that the Blues want to sign the young defender as backup for Reece James. The England international has struggled with injury this season, and his absence has massively hindered Graham Potter’s side.

The report states that Chelsea are now lining up an offer for Gusto, despite Lyon’s desire to keep the Frenchman until the end of the season.

Gusto has been heavily linked with an exit from the Ligue 1 club this month, with Newcastle one of the sides that are reportedly keen.

It was first reported by the Daily Mail that the Magpies want to sign the right-back, as they search for someone who can provide backup for Kieran Trippier.

Gusto, who is reportedly available for £35million, seemingly ticks the Toon’s boxes, as it was most recently claimed that Dan Ashworth is ready to launch a big bid for the teenager. That was according to Foot Mercato last week, although there have been no further developments since then.

Newcastle’s need for Gusto may have increased over the past 24 hours, with the Magpies no longer in the race to sign Ivan Fresneda – another teenage right-back that has been linked with a move to St James’ Park.

Malo Gusto set to become the latest Newcastle target Chelsea bid for

While Newcastle are yet to make any major signings (beyond the pre-arranged Garang Kuol deal), Chelsea have been incredibly active during the current January transfer window.

They have made six signings so far, three of which were previously linked with moves to St James’ Park. Andrey Santos, Joao Felix and Mykhailo Mudryk were all Toon targets who have now signed for Chelsea. Benoit Badiashile has also signed, who was a target for Eddie Howe 12 months ago.

Now Gusto could be the next player linked with Newcastle to head to Stamford Bridge. And it might not end there.

Potter is also looking to sign a centre-midfielder, and has had a £55million bid rejected for Moises Caicedo. He is also someone who Newcastle want, with Howe reportedly believing that he would suit his side perfectly.

But while the Toon owners operate in the transfer window with caution, Todd Boehly is splashing the cash in the capital.