Liverpool's Last-Minute Bid for Chelsea's Malo Gusto Falls Through
Liverpool tried a last-minute move to bring in Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto on loan, but the deal collapsed due to disagreements over the financial terms between the two Premier League clubs.
Deadline Day Negotiations Break Down
Journalist Fabrice Hawkins revealed that Liverpool made a late effort to secure the services of the 23-year-old defender. The plan was to strengthen their defense by adding Gusto temporarily to Andoni Iraola’s squad, offering more depth and competition in the right-back position.
The talks failed because Liverpool insisted on a loan without any obligation to buy, while Chelsea demanded a permanent transfer. This deadlock stopped any agreement from being reached.
Financial Demands Halt Permanent Move
Chelsea were firm on not letting Gusto leave on loan. Earlier in the summer, when Manchester City showed interest, the London club valued the player around £75 million. Liverpool, who have spent on signings like Jeremy Jacquet, Victor Munoz, Ronald Araujo, and Bradley Barcola, were unwilling to commit such a large sum for a permanent deal.
The differing approaches meant no deal could be struck. Chelsea will only allow Gusto to leave if the purchasing club makes a substantial long-term financial commitment.
Gusto Remains Important at Chelsea
With the transfer falling through, Gusto will stay at Stamford Bridge where manager Xabi Alonso has stressed the player’s value to the team. The French defender started in Chelsea’s recent Premier League wins against Fulham and Brighton, and featured in the Carabao Cup victory over Luton.
His athletic style fits perfectly with Alonso’s tactics, and he is expected to start again when Chelsea face reigning champions Arsenal in their next league match.
What Lies Ahead for Liverpool?
Now that the deadline day attempt to sign Gusto has ended without success, Liverpool will need to manage with their current defensive options during the season’s first half. Jeremie Frimpong will likely remain the first-choice right-back under Iraola.
The manager will also be hoping that Conor Bradley recovers soon from his knee injury sustained in January, as the team faces a demanding schedule filled with both domestic and European fixtures.
Upcoming Fixtures:
- Ipswich Town vs Liverpool: 4 Sept 2026, 21:00, Premier League
- Liverpool vs Arsenal: 6 Sept 2026, 17:30, Premier League
- Chelsea vs Arsenal: Date TBA, Premier League
