Liverpool F.C. Made a deadline day attempt to sign Chelsea defender Malo Gusto. The proposed loan move for the 23-year-old France right-back did not materialise because Chelsea wanted a permanent transfer instead, a report from BBC Sport Football confirms.
French journalist Fabrice Hawkins provided details on the failed transfer. "Liverpool tried to sign France right-back Malo Gusto, 23, on deadline day but the loan move did not materialise as Chelsea wanted a permanent transfer," Hawkins said. Liverpool's interest appears to have been a late reactive move in the market, contrasting with Chelsea's firm stance on securing a full sale for the player. The Blues were themselves active, making a late attempt to sign Bournemouth's 23-year-old midfielder Alex Scott and enquiring about Arsenal's Spain midfielder Martin Zubimendi, 27, though that approach was rejected.
While the Gusto move stalled, Liverpool were involved in other significant squad matters. Forward Cody Gakpo, 27, held what have been described as 'clear the air' talks with the club's hierarchy. This followed strong interest from Manchester City, but Liverpool refused to sanction a sale for the Dutch international.
The final day of the window saw activity across the Premier League. Manchester United are already planning for next summer, with intentions to make three defensive signings. Their current key defenders include Luke Shaw (31), Harry Maguire (33), Lisandro Martinez (28), and Matthijs de Ligt (27). United striker Chido Obi, 18, is keen for a loan move to the Netherlands or his native Denmark. "Manchester United striker Chido Obi, 18, is keen for a loan move to the Netherlands or his native Denmark - both countries where the transfer window only closes on Wednesday - with Feyenoord among interested clubs."
Everton's interest in signing Monaco's 26-year-old full-back Jordan Teze was vetoed by the French club's management. In Italy, England defender Fikayo Tomori, 28, will be reinstated into AC Milan manager Ruben Amorim's squad. Veteran striker Jamie Vardy, 39, is a free agent attracting interest from Wrexham, Sao Paulo, and Sheffield Wednesday. Aston Villa's Jamaica winger Leon Bailey, 29, is being explored by Saudi clubs Al-Ittihad and Diriyah.
Missing out on Gusto means Liverpool's right-back options remain unchanged as they head into a busy period. The immediate focus shifts entirely to the pitch and improving results. Manager Arne Slot will need his current group to start converting draws into wins, beginning with the trip to Portman Road to face Ipswich on 4 September 2026.
