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Como manager Cesc Fabregas is reportedly considering another move for a Chelsea player ahead of the January transfer window, with French defender Malo Gusto emerging as a possible candidate to leave Stamford Bridge.
The former Chelsea midfielder has maintained strong connections with his previous club and has already used those relationships to strengthen his Como squad. During the summer transfer window, Fabregas successfully secured the services of Trevoh Chalobah and goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. He could now return to the Premier League side in an attempt to negotiate another deal.
Chelsea generated almost £500 million from player sales during the summer, including Enzo Fernandez's transfer to Manchester City. Despite the significant changes to their squad, the club still have several players competing for positions, particularly because they are not participating in European competitions.
Gusto is among the players whose long-term future could come under consideration as Chelsea assess their squad options. The French international is facing increased competition at right-back, where the Blues currently have four players capable of operating in that position.
According to reports from TeamTalk, Como are closely monitoring his situation as the defender considers the possibility of leaving Stamford Bridge. His position has become increasingly uncertain following his reduced involvement in Chelsea's first team and his absence from France's national team setup.
The 23-year-old has also struggled to secure regular starting opportunities, having failed to start a Premier League fixture since Chelsea's disappointing 2-2 draw against Hull City. Reece James, Marco Palestra and Josh Acheampong are currently considered preferred options, making it increasingly difficult for Gusto to establish himself as a regular starter.
Como are not the only club reportedly interested in securing his services. Manchester City, Liverpool and Tottenham could revive their previous interest, while Atletico Madrid, RB Leipzig and AC Milan are also understood to be monitoring developments surrounding the defender.
A possible transfer to RB Leipzig could offer Gusto the opportunity to reunite with former Chelsea teammate Christopher Nkunku. Meanwhile, AC Milan could also become serious contenders because of their established transfer relationship with Chelsea, which has previously facilitated negotiations between the two clubs.
Chelsea originally signed Gusto from Lyon for approximately £30.7 million in January 2023. The defender subsequently committed his future to the London club by signing a seven-and-a-half-year contract that runs until June 2030.
From a financial perspective, Chelsea could still benefit significantly from allowing him to leave. Current calculations suggest the club would need to recover only around £14 million to cover the remaining value of their investment in the Frenchman. Consequently, any transfer fee above that figure could represent a considerable profit.
The Blues reportedly placed a valuation of approximately £75 million on Gusto during the previous summer transfer window. However, there are indications that their financial demands could decrease when the January market opens.
Even if Chelsea agree to reduce their asking price by £25 million, they could still receive a substantial amount from his departure. This would make a potential agreement particularly attractive from a financial standpoint.
Fabregas's interest in bringing Gusto to Como could therefore create an opportunity for all parties involved. While the Italian club would gain an experienced defender, Chelsea could generate additional transfer revenue and reduce competition within their squad.