CHELSEA have reportedly beaten Manchester United to the transfer of Lyon right-back Malo Gusto.
The 19-year-old has impressed English giants Chelsea and Man Utd since breaking through at the French side.
Chelsea, in particular, are in need of right-back cover for star man Reece James, who has suffered with knee injuries in recent months.
England star James missed the World Cup following knee surgery.
And he was ruled out again after returning to club action in late December.
Chelsea had an £18million offer for Gusto rejected, and United asked the player to hold off on a decision.
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However, big spenders Chelsea pushed forward with a transfer and according to RMC Sport, the West London club has struck a deal that will see Gusto sign but remain at Lyon until the end of the season.
Chelsea have agreed to pay £26.3m plus add-ons for Gusto.
Gusto is set to become Chelsea’s seventh January signing.
Joao Felix, David Fofana, Andrey Santos, Benoit Badiashile, Noni Madueke and Mykhailo Mudryk have all joined Graham Potter’s project.
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The latest development comes after Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas said the player will remain at the club.
Gusto has featured 15 times for Lyon this season, and manager Laurent Blanc will need the player on top form if his side are to revive their campaign.
Lyon are performing well under expectations and sat 9th in Ligue 1 after 19 games played.
This is despite not playing European football this term.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
