Chelsea have held preliminary talks with Lyon over a move for full-back Malo Gusto, football.london understands.
The Blues have invested heavily in their first team this month with Benoit Badiashile, Mykhailo Mudryk, Noni Madueke, Joao Felix, and David Datro Fofana added to Graham Potter's squad. Gabriel Slonina and Andrey Santos have also been recruited, although neither has yet to make their senior debut.
Due to the injuries suffered by Reece James over the past 12 months, right-back has become a problem position for Chelsea. The club have explored several options throughout the window but Gusto – who has just 18 months remaining on his contract with Lyon – is understood to be a long-term target.
READ MORE Chelsea set to approach Benfica over Enzo Fernandez deal before transfer window closes
Following the departure of Leo Dubois to Galatasaray in the summer, Gusto has firmly established himself as Lyon's first-choice right-back. He has started 15 of a possible 19 Ligue 1 matches and has reportedly attracted the attention of several European clubs, including Real Madrid and Barcelona.
It is understood Lyon are hopeful of keeping Gusto until the summer – when there is anticipated to be further interest in the 19-year-old. Gusto is keen on moving to Stamford Bridge, football.london understands, so that might be something for Lyon to consider. Chelsea have showcased throughout this month they are willing to pay what is required to secure key targets and improve Potter's squad.
The final week of the January window is set to be a busy one for Chelsea. The Blues are intent on bringing in another central midfielder and football.london understands another approach will be made to Benfica for Enzo Fernandez.
The Blues made the Argentine midfielder a priority target before the January transfer window opened and held several rounds of talks with Benfica over a deal. However, the Portuguese side stood firm on their £105million valuation, a figure Chelsea were ultimately not prepared to meet.
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