Manchester United and Manchester City are both pursuing Chelsea defender Malo Gusto, 23, in what is shaping up to be a competitive battle for the France international's signature. According to BBC Sport, the two Manchester clubs have registered interest in the right-back, though neither has yet confirmed an official approach for the January transfer window.
Talksport reports that Chelsea value Gusto at £75 million, a significant fee that could complicate negotiations. The 23-year-old has struggled for regular playing time this season, having made only three Premier League starts and falling behind Josh Acheampong in the club's defensive hierarchy.
Gusto arrived at Stamford Bridge from Lyon in 2023 for approximately £26 million and has since accumulated 144 appearances for the Blues. His current difficulties in securing consistent first-team football have made him available for potential departure, presenting an opportunity for clubs seeking defensive reinforcement.
Which other defenders are attracting interest?
Liverpool have identified Brighton's teenage defender Luka Vuskovic, 19, as a target for next summer, with the Seagulls valuing the Croatian prospect at around £80 million. Tribuna reports that Brighton signed Vuskovic from Tottenham in a deal initially worth £46 million, and his contract extends until 2031 with no release clause included. The young defender's long-term security at the Amex suggests the Seagulls will demand a premium fee should Liverpool or other suitors pursue him seriously.
Leeds United are monitoring Middlesbrough forward Will Lankshear, 21, who has impressed in the Championship following his summer transfer from Tottenham Hotspur. Matchpal reports that Lankshear has scored 15 goals in 16 Championship appearances this season, though Middlesbrough are reportedly reluctant to sell him in January despite Leeds' interest. Newcastle United and Sunderland are also keeping close watch on Sheffield United midfielder Sydie Peck, 22, an England Under-21 international who has caught the attention of several clubs.
What other moves are being discussed across Europe?
Fulham are leading the race to sign Real Betis winger Rodrigo Riquelme, 26, the Spanish attacker who has attracted attention from several Premier League sides. In the Premier League, Everton could make a move for Tottenham midfielder Conor Gallagher, 26, should the Englishman become available for transfer in January, though Spurs have not yet indicated a willingness to part with the midfielder.
Across Europe, PSV have opened talks with Napoli regarding Belgium midfielder Kevin de Bruyne, 35, over a potential January move to the Dutch club. AC Milan's French midfielder Youssouf Fofana, 27, currently on loan at Sevilla, is attracting interest from both Tottenham and Juventus as clubs look to strengthen their midfield options.
Barcelona have moved to quash speculation surrounding their future, confirming they have no interest in selling 22-year-old Spain midfielder Gavi despite reported interest from Bayern Munich and Napoli. The club's stance suggests they view the young midfielder as a cornerstone of their long-term project.
Which loan moves and managerial connections are relevant?
Former Aston Villa manager Dean Smith, now in charge of MLS club Charlotte FC, is interested in reuniting with his former player Jack Grealish, 31. The England attacker is currently on loan at Everton from Manchester City, but the financial demands of the Manchester City star's wages could prove a significant obstacle to any potential move to the United States.
Tottenham winger Mikey Moore, 19, could be heading back to Rangers, with Spurs considering ending the Englishman's current loan spell at Cologne in January. The young winger's potential return to Scottish football would represent a change of direction in his development pathway.
What about Manchester United's broader transfer strategy?
Manchester United are reportedly lining up United States international Folarin Balogun, the 25-year-old Monaco striker who nearly joined Everton on deadline day last summer, as manager Mauricio Pochettino's first significant signing. Balogun's experience in European football and his proven goal-scoring record make him an attractive prospect for the Old Trafford club as they look to strengthen their attacking options.
The January transfer window is shaping up to be an active period across the Premier League and beyond, with multiple clubs pursuing ambitious targets to bolster their squads for the remainder of the season and beyond.
