Man City Draw a Line Under Malo Gusto Pursuit as Maresca's Ambitions Hit Chelsea's Price Tag

Enzo Maresca may fancy a reunion with his former Chelsea charge, but Manchester City are not prepared to break the bank for Malo Gusto. The newly appointed City boss has been keen on the 23-year-old right-back, yet the club's hierarchy have decided to hold firm against the London outfit's asking price.

According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, City will not be stumping up the £75million Chelsea are demanding for the France international. Should the Blues refuse to budge on their valuation, the Premier League champions are ready to look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements.

Romano posted on social media on July 1st: "Man City like Malo Gusto with Enzo Maresca appreciating him but not planning to spend £75m as Chelsea value him at that price. If price doesn't drop, City would explore different options."

The right-back, who arrived at Stamford Bridge in January 2023, remains contracted until the summer of 2030. He's been a regular fixture in Chelsea's colours, racking up 134 appearances whilst chipping in with three goals and 17 assists. French media outlets had previously suggested a deal was already in the offing, but it appears those whispers were wide of the mark.

Gusto arrives at Chelsea just as the club settles under new management, with Xabi Alonso taking the reins following their managerial reshuffle.

City's recruitment drive has nonetheless moved on apace elsewhere. The club have already secured England midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for a hefty £116million, with the 23-year-old currently on World Cup duty with the Three Lions.

Anderson has completed his medical in Kansas and will formally join City upon returning from the tournament. Both clubs confirmed the deal through official statements, with Forest paying tribute to his contributions over the past two seasons whilst wishing him well in Qatar—sorry, the World Cup campaign ahead.

Manchester City and Tottenham have emerged as the Premier League's biggest spenders in this summer's transfer window so far.