City eye Feyenoord's Read as £75m Gusto link fades despite Chelsea connection

Manchester City are in the market for a right back this summer but have cooled on a reported move for Chelsea defender Malo Gusto, with Feyenoord’s Givairo Read emerging as a more realistic target.

Reports had suggested Gusto’s representatives contacted City about a potential switch from Stamford Bridge to the Etihad, but a £75 million asking price and Chelsea’s reluctance to sell make the deal a remote prospect. City are not expected to pursue it.

The speculation was fuelled in part by Enzo Maresca’s imminent arrival as Manchester City manager, a connection that has made Chelsea players natural transfer fodder throughout the summer window. City were also linked with Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez earlier in the summer, though he is not a player the club are actively pursuing.

Instead, City’s right-back search appears to be pointing toward younger, more affordable options. Read, a promising teenager at Feyenoord, fits the profile City are targeting — a player capable of developing into a first-team regular while providing near-term competition for Matheus Nunes.

Nunes, a Portugal international, was converted from midfield to right back last season and impressed sufficiently to establish himself as the clear first choice in that position. He is contracted at the Etihad until 2028, meaning City’s priority is depth and long-term succession rather than an immediate upgrade.

The Gusto situation has also been complicated by Chelsea’s own activity in the transfer market. The club secured a deal for Atalanta right back Marco Palestra — a player who had been on City’s radar — meaning Gusto faces increased competition for his place at Stamford Bridge. That dynamic could yet prompt the Frenchman to seek a move, but City’s interest remains limited at the current valuation.

Elsewhere in City’s transfer business, the club have had two bids for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson rejected, with the second offer reportedly worth £120 million. City also hold an interest in Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali.