Malo Gusto transfer decision scheduled for January 2026

Chelsea face a pivotal January decision over Malo Gusto, weighing whether to keep the 23-year-old right-back or sanction a move after sustained interest from several clubs this year.

Malo Gusto transfer: what Chelsea are weighing

Chelsea will determine Malo Gusto’s future once the January window opens. The 23-year-old French defender has remained at Stamford Bridge following heavy summer speculation but has started only three Premier League games this season. Reports from the summer suggested Chelsea valued Gusto at around £75 million, a price tag that deterred Manchester City and saw Liverpool explore a loan option rather than meeting Chelsea’s asking price.

Although Gusto has stayed in west London, his long-term role in Xabi Alonso’s plans remains uncertain. Those following the situation indicate Chelsea were prepared to pursue permanent transfers or deals with a firm buy option, rather than a temporary loan without guarantees.

Why January matters for Malo Gusto

Gusto has publicly said he would fight for a place at Chelsea, but another stint on the fringes could prompt a reevaluation. If he cannot secure a sustained run of strong performances under Alonso, a January move might provide a practical path to regular first-team football and preserve his France prospects.

International considerations also come into play. New France manager Zinedine Zidane left Gusto out of his most recent squad, with reports suggesting concerns over consistency. A regular starting role at club level would strengthen Gusto’s case for future France selections.

Context: clubs linked and market dynamics

Interest in Gusto has persisted. Atletico Madrid has been mentioned as exploring a potential move, while Bayern Munich, Juventus, Tottenham Hotspur and Paris Saint-Germain have all been linked at various times. During the summer, Manchester City reportedly balked at Chelsea’s valuation and Liverpool considered a loan solution but were deterred by Chelsea’s preference for a permanent move or a buy obligation.

These links illustrate why Chelsea must decide whether Gusto fits into their medium- to long-term plans. If the club views him as a rotation option or a player still developing toward a starting role, they may keep him and hope he grows into a regular contributor. Conversely, accepting a January offer could free playing time for other signings while giving Gusto a fresh opportunity elsewhere.

Player perspective and international impact

Reports indicate Gusto would prefer to stay and battle for a first-team place at Chelsea. Yet with only three appearances this season, he has yet to win the manager’s full trust. For a defender still early in his senior career, minutes are crucial for progression at club level and for momentum with France.

From Chelsea’s standpoint, the club must balance squad needs with the value they can secure. A clear decision in January would allow both Chelsea and Gusto to plan the remainder of the season with greater certainty.

What Happens Next

Chelsea are expected to monitor Gusto’s form closely ahead of the January window. A run of strong displays could see him re-establish himself under Xabi Alonso and dampen outside interest. If not, January could reopen discussions with Atletico Madrid and other previously linked clubs. Any formal move will depend on valuation, offer structure (permanent versus loan) and what both clubs prefer for the remainder of the 2025–26 season.

Readers following this story should look for official club statements or confirmed transfers once the window opens; in the meantime, reporting will focus on interest, valuations and whether Chelsea will adjust their stance from the summer.

Source: Original report

Related: More Malo Gusto transfer coverage