Manchester City has reportedly identified Malo Gusto as a primary target to support the arrival of Enzo Maresca. The Citizens are eager to provide their new manager with familiar talent, and the French defender’s previous working relationship with the coach makes him an ideal candidate for the upcoming transition. This move aligns with Chelsea’s current search for a new right-back, specifically eyeing Marco Palestra.

The legendary tenure of Pep Guardiola at Manchester City has officially come to an end. Despite having a contract valid until June 2027, the Spanish tactician decided to step down after a decade of unprecedented success. During his final address, an emotional Guardiola thanked the supporters for their overwhelming affection, stating that coaching the club was a massive privilege. He reminded the squad that they carry the weight of maintaining the elite standards established during his time at the helm.

Enzo Maresca eyes reunion with Malo Gusto at the Etihad

With the search for a successor concluded, the Manchester City board has placed its trust in Enzo Maresca. To ensure the new manager hits the ground running, the club is looking to secure high-profile signings during the current transfer window. Internal discussions have focused on Malo Gusto, the French international currently representing his country at the 2026 World Cup. Gusto and Maresca previously collaborated at Chelsea between July 2024 and January 2026, creating a strong professional bond that City hopes to leverage.

Transfer dominoes: Chelsea looks to Cagliari for replacements

The potential transfer of the 23-year-old Malo Gusto to Manchester City appears to be gaining momentum. Chelsea is already preparing for a future without the defender, as they have initiated moves to sign 21-year-old Marco Palestra from Cagliari. This shift in the London club’s strategy could pave the way for Gusto to make the switch to Manchester and reunite with his former coach.