Paris Saint-Germain are considering a move for Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto as they continue to strengthen their squad before the new season, with manager Luis Enrique reported to have approved the French international as a possible alternative to Achraf Hakimi.
The 23-year-old, who was born in Decines-Charpieu, came through the academy at Olympique Lyonnais before joining Chelsea in 2023 in a transfer worth 35m euros. His performances have now attracted interest from Paris Saint-Germain, although a move has not been confirmed in France.
Gusto played 49 matches in all competitions for Chelsea last season, scoring three goals and providing five assists. He has also been selected by France for the 2026 World Cup.
According to the English newspaper The Sun, Paris Saint-Germain are assessing whether Gusto would justify Chelsea’s reported valuation of 87m euros. That figure is considered high, despite the player’s ability and potential, and it is regarded as difficult to imagine Paris Saint-Germain agreeing to pay the full amount.
Chelsea have not ruled out selling the defender, while the report says the London club are open to his departure. The situation has been influenced by the arrival of Marco Palestra at Chelsea, which could increase competition for places in the squad.
Manchester City, who are also looking for a right-back, have included Gusto on their list of transfer targets. However, Paris Saint-Germain are understood to be examining the possibility of making an approach, with his profile particularly appealing to Enrique.
The signing of another right-back was not initially a priority for Paris Saint-Germain this summer. The French champions have been encouraged by the form of Warren Zaire-Emery, who performed well when filling in for the Morocco international Hakimi.
The potential move for Gusto comes as Paris Saint-Germain continue their recruitment work following their first match since winning the Champions League for a second time. Sixty-seven days after lifting the trophy, they opened their preparations on Wednesday with a 3-0 victory over Real Mallorca, who had been relegated to Spain’s second division.
Paris Saint-Germain were without a large number of their international players for that match, but the club remain active in the transfer market as they look to reinforce the squad ahead of the new campaign.
Lucas Digne and Maghnes Akliouche are both reportedly close to joining the Paris club, although neither transfer has yet been officially announced. The club are also pursuing Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki and Ajax midfielder Mika Godts, in negotiations described as complicated but ongoing.
Gusto may therefore not be the only further addition under consideration. For now, there has been no confirmation in France that Paris Saint-Germain will pursue or complete the deal, while Chelsea’s willingness to listen to offers leaves the defender’s future unresolved.
