Liverpool could be considering another addition to their defensive ranks, with Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto reportedly emerging as a potential target.
According to Ekrem Konur, Liverpool are considering a move for the French defender this summer.
It is only a transfer rumour at this stage, but it is an interesting one given Liverpool’s need for greater depth and versatility in defence.
Recent reports have also suggested Chelsea are open to selling Gusto before the transfer window closes, although their reported £75m valuation has been considered too high by some interested clubs.
Why would Liverpool want Gusto?
Gusto is an attacking full-back who can provide plenty of energy and pace down the right.
That could make him particularly interesting for Andoni Iraola.
Liverpool’s new manager wants his side to play aggressive, high-intensity football, and the full-backs are likely to be hugely important to that approach.
Gusto has the athleticism to get forward and contribute in attack while also having the ability to recover quickly when possession is lost.
He has also been used in more advanced positions during his time at Chelsea, demonstrating his tactical versatility.
Another option alongside Frimpong and Bradley?
Liverpool already have Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley competing for the right-back position.
But there are question marks.
Frimpong is adapting to the position after spending much of his career operating as a wing-back, while Bradley has unfortunately struggled with injuries.
Bringing in Gusto would give Iraola another high-quality option.
It could also allow Liverpool to rotate their full-backs more regularly during a season containing the Premier League, Champions League and domestic competitions.
Gusto fits the age profile
Another reason this rumour makes sense is Gusto’s age.
He is still only 23, meaning Liverpool would potentially be signing a player who could remain an important part of the squad for many years.
He also already has significant Premier League experience after making more than 80 appearances for Chelsea since joining from Lyon.
That combination of youth and experience is exactly what makes him an interesting proposition.
But £75m would be a huge fee
This is where Liverpool would need to be careful.
Chelsea are reportedly looking for around £75m for Gusto, a valuation that has already deterred some interested clubs.
Would Liverpool really want to spend that much on another right-back?
Probably not.
Liverpool have other areas of the squad that arguably require investment, particularly in central defence and attack.
If Chelsea significantly lowered their asking price, however, the situation could become much more interesting.
Could Gusto be another piece of Iraola’s puzzle?
The idea certainly makes sense from a footballing perspective.
Gusto’s pace.
Frimpong’s attacking ability.
Bradley’s energy.
Suddenly Iraola could have three very different options at right-back.
And in a system based around intensity and attacking football, that depth could be extremely valuable.
For now, though, this remains just a rumour.
Liverpool are reportedly considering Gusto, but there is no indication that a deal is close.
If Chelsea really are demanding £75m, I would struggle to see Liverpool paying that figure.
But if the price comes down, Malo Gusto could be a very interesting addition to Iraola’s new-look Liverpool.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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