Tottenham Hotspur could be handed an opportunity to sign Chelsea right-back, with growing uncertainty surrounding the French defender’s role at Stamford Bridge potentially opening the door to a transfer.
The 23-year-old versatile defender is reportedly keen to receive greater assurances about his position in the team as competition for places continues to increase. Although Gusto remains happy at Chelsea, he is understood to be open to considering his future if his playing time does not improve or an opportunity arises to join a club he considers a step up.
That situation could put Tottenham on alert, particularly if they are looking to strengthen their defensive options and take advantage of a potential opportunity to recruit a talented Premier League-proven full-back.
Gusto has made three starts in Chelsea’s opening six Premier League matches this season, with his opportunities becoming increasingly limited in recent weeks. He was only introduced as a late substitute during Chelsea’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Bournemouth on Saturday, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding his immediate prospects.
The defender’s situation could become even more complicated as Chelsea welcome key players back from injury. With Reece James and Marco Palestra providing competition at right-back, Gusto may find it increasingly difficult to secure a regular starting position.
For a player who is still developing and wants to establish himself at the highest level, spending extended periods on the bench could become a significant concern.
According to Sky Sports Switzerland, Gusto would like greater clarity regarding his role in the squad, although his main priority remains continuing his development. The report suggests he is content at Chelsea but would consider leaving if his circumstances changed or a move to a club offering a more attractive sporting project became available.
Tottenham could potentially benefit from that situation if they decide to pursue the French international.
Spurs have previously been linked with Gusto, alongside several other European heavyweights, including Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich and Juventus. His representatives were reportedly in contact with interested clubs during the summer as they explored the level of interest in their client.
However, any deal could prove expensive. Chelsea were reportedly demanding around £75 million for Gusto during the summer transfer window, a valuation that could complicate negotiations for Tottenham or any other potential suitor.
Despite the financial challenge, the defender’s versatility and experience in English football could make him an attractive option for a club seeking quality and depth at full-back.
Gusto is capable of operating on either side of the defence and has also demonstrated the versatility to fill in centrally when required. That flexibility could appeal to Tottenham, particularly if they want a defender capable of providing different tactical options rather than simply competing for one position.
For Spurs, the possibility of signing a player who has already demonstrated his ability in the Premier League could be appealing. At 23, Gusto still has considerable room to develop, and a move that offers him a more consistent role could benefit both the player and his potential new club.
Nevertheless, Tottenham would need to establish whether Chelsea are genuinely prepared to negotiate his departure. Gusto’s reported desire for greater assurances does not necessarily mean he is pushing to leave, especially given that he remains happy at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea could also be reluctant to lose a player with his age, athleticism and positional flexibility, particularly during a demanding season when injuries and fixture congestion can quickly expose weaknesses in squad depth.
The situation is also part of a wider conversation about opportunities for young players at Chelsea. Brazilian forward Estevao has reportedly become frustrated by his limited involvement, having largely been restricted to late substitute appearances in the Premier League this season.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has dismissed suggestions that the teenager is unhappy, insisting that the youngster is training well and remains fully involved with the squad.
Alonso said Estevao had made a positive impact when given the opportunity and maintained that the youngster would have an important role to play throughout the campaign.
The manager also pointed to Estevao’s potential and the need for him to adapt to English football, stressing that the season is long and there will be opportunities for him to contribute.
While Estevao’s circumstances differ from Gusto’s, the reports underline the challenges of balancing a large squad filled with talented players who all want regular football.
For Tottenham, the key question is whether Gusto’s situation develops into a genuine transfer opportunity. If the Frenchman begins to feel that his long-term ambitions cannot be fulfilled at Chelsea, Spurs could potentially emerge as an option, provided they are willing to meet the financial demands involved.
A move to north London would not be straightforward, given Chelsea’s reported £75 million valuation and the interest from other major European clubs. However, if Tottenham believe Gusto could strengthen their defence for the long term, his uncertain position at Stamford Bridge is certainly a situation worth monitoring.
Could Malo Gusto become Tottenham’s next major defensive signing? Much will depend on his playing time at Chelsea, the club’s willingness to negotiate and whether Spurs decide that investing heavily in another full-back is the right move for their squad. For now, the possibility remains one to watch
rather than a confirmed transfer development.
