Liverpool made a late attempt to sign Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto on transfer deadline day, but the move fell through after the two clubs failed to agree on the structure of the deal.
According to French journalist Fabrice Hawkins, Liverpool pushed to bring the 23-year-old to Anfield on a season-long loan. The Reds reportedly wanted the deal to be a temporary move without an obligation to buy.
Chelsea, however, were looking for a permanent transfer rather than simply loaning Gusto to another Premier League club. That difference in approach proved impossible to overcome with only hours remaining before the deadline.
Liverpool had identified Gusto as an attractive option because of his Premier League experience, pace, attacking ability and versatility. The Reds were also looking for additional cover at right-back, with Conor Bradley facing fitness concerns and Jeremie Frimpong still adapting to the defensive demands of the position.
A loan would have allowed Liverpool to strengthen their squad without committing to another major transfer fee after an expensive summer. Chelsea, on the other hand, had little reason to send an established young player to a direct Premier League rival without securing a permanent sale.
Ultimately, negotiations broke down and Gusto remained a Chelsea player, leaving Liverpool without the extra defensive option they had sought.
The failed move could become significant for Andoni Iraola if Bradley’s fitness problems continue or Frimpong struggles defensively. Liverpool will now have to rely on their existing options until the next opportunity to strengthen the position.
