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Man Utd have entered the race to sign Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto, according to reports.

TalkSPORT claim that the Red Devils have joined rivals Manchester City in “keeping tabs” on the France international, who is set to be available during the January transfer window.

Gusto is now effectively fourth choice for his preferred position, having slipped behind Reece James, Josh Acheampong and Marco Palestra in the pecking order.

Reliable sources, including the BBC, have confirmed that the 23-year-old is seriously considering leaving Stamford Bridge early in the New Year in search of regular first-team football.

How much would Man Utd need to pay for the defender?

Chelsea were demanding an exorbitant £75m when City made enquiries last summer, but the poor relations between the two teams – related to Enzo Maresca’s arrival at the Etihad – may have influenced their asking price.

United and Chelsea are on much better terms, with the clubs recently agreeing a £50m deal for Andrey Santos. A bid in a similar ballpark for Gusto may be in the works.

Gusto would strengthen a problem position

Fans have been extremely critical of Diogo Dalot’s performance this season, while Noussair Mazraoui has not fared much better when asked to play at right-back.

The interest in Gusto does suggest that Director of Football Jason Wilcox wants to give prospective new manager Mauricio Pochettino another option for that position.

Gusto’s poor form, though, will raise alarm bells, and considering how underwhelming Santos has been since his move to Old Trafford, many will be concerned the club are repeating the same mistake.