FC Bayern could get another chance to strengthen its defense this winter. Malo Gusto of Chelsea FC is reportedly set to hit the market—a player the Munich club has been monitoring for quite some time. After a deal last summer fell through primarily due to the London club’s financial demands, the situation could now be changing.
Although the record champions have been impressive for much of the current season, the right side of the defense is still considered a position where the club’s management is looking for ways to improve.
Coach Vincent Kompany does have several options at his disposal in Josip Stanisic, Konrad Laimer, and Sacha Boey. However, a long-term ideal solution does not yet seem to have been found. Boey’s future, in particular, remains uncertain.
Now, Gusto—a former transfer target—could once again become an option.
Chelsea apparently willing to let Gusto go
As transfer expert Sacha Tavolieri reports, it is no longer out of the question that the French international could leave Chelsea FC this coming winter.
According to the report, the London club has recently signaled that Gusto is, in principle, not unsellable. That would be a remarkable development, given that Chelsea had demanded an enormous transfer fee for the 23-year-old just last summer.
The Blues are said to have demanded around 90 million euros for the right back at the time—a sum that apparently deterred potential suitors. His current market value is estimated at “only” 35 million euros.
Bayern Munich is also said to have shown interest in the Frenchman at the time. According to Tavolieri, the player’s entourage had sounded out several top European clubs—including Bayern—regarding their general willingness to pursue a transfer.
However, no concrete negotiations took place.
Should Chelsea actually lower its current financial demands, Gusto could once again appear on Bayern’s radar.
Gusto would be a good fit for Kompany’s style of play
From a sporting perspective, the Frenchman would certainly be an interesting candidate for the German record champions. Gusto brings a lot of speed to the field, regularly gets involved in the attack, and has international experience—qualities that are particularly sought after in Vincent Kompany’s attack-oriented system.
At Chelsea, the 23-year-old remains in the squad under coach Xabi Alonso, but according to the report, he does not have an undisputed starting spot.
Nevertheless, Gusto is said to generally feel at home in London. A transfer would apparently only be an option for him if an opportunity arises at a club he considers a step up from a sporting perspective.
Bayern Faces Competition from Europe
Should Chelsea actually put Gusto up for sale this winter, Bayern Munich would likely have to brace for stiff competition. In addition to Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus Turin, and Tottenham Hotspur are also said to be closely monitoring the right-back’s situation.
No concrete offer from Munich has been reported so far. Nor is there any indication that Bayern has already begun talks with Chelsea.