Chelsea have dealt a blow to Malo Gusto’s transfer as the Lyon president says he will stay at the club for the rest of the season

Chelsea target Malo Gusto will stay at Lyon this season, says the French club’s president.

Graham Potter’s side are keen to sign the 19-year-old this month as they continue their January spending spree.

It was recently revealed that Lyon are unwilling to let go of the right-back halfway through the season, with Chelsea hoping to convince them to sell.

However, they may have now been dealt a blow in their pursuit, with Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas revealing his plans for his player.

In a Tweeterhe said: “Since I am actively participating with Vincent, Bruno, Laurent in this great winter movement, I am pleased to confirm the team on KTE [Karl Toko Ekambi] but also to specify that Malo, a great hope for OL [Lyon]will continue to play with OL at least until 06/30/23.

Gusto is a rising star in Ligue 1, having already made 54 appearances for Lyon and played seven times for the France Under-21 team.

A move to Chelsea would see him offer competition and support to Reece James, who has struggled with injuries in recent months.

If signed, he would be the Blues’ seventh arrival in the January transfer window, with the club looking to do more business before next week’s deadline.

Chelsea have already signed players including Mykhailo Mudryk, Joao Felix and Benoit Badiashile in recent weeks.

Potter’s team gave long contracts to most of their newcomers, Mudryk’s until 2031.

Such a strategy has prompted UEFA to introduce a new five-year limit on how long clubs can split transfer fees from this summer.

Chelsea could also be looking to sign Everton midfielder Amadou Onana, with the club showing no signs of stopping their spending.

However, the 21-year-old refused a move to Stamford Bridge to stay with the Toffees in their relegation battle.

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