Liverpool transfer news: Reds fail in 'final push' to sign £75m right-back due to one key reason

By Lewis Blain | 01 Sep 2026 16:47

Liverpool fail in 'final push' to sign £75m right-back due to one key reason

Liverpool have failed with a late attempt to sign Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto before this evening's transfer deadline.

The Reds are said to have made a last attempt for the France international, but Chelsea's preference for a permanent sale proved decisive.

That leaves manager Andoni Iraola facing a difficult situation at right-back heading into the new season.

Liverpool fail with late Malo Gusto move

French journalist Fabrice Hawkins reports that Liverpool made a 'final push' to sign Gusto on loan, but the deal was unsuccessful.

The Reds were only prepared to consider a temporary move without a mandatory purchase clause, while the Blues wanted a permanent transfer.

Liverpool's financial position ultimately proved the biggest obstacle, with the club unable to fund a permanent deal for Gusto.

Chelsea had reportedly placed a £75 million valuation on the 23-year-old during the summer and have not been actively looking to sell, particularly after his recent performances for club and country.

Andoni Iraola could be hindered by Liverpool's right-back woes

This is a significant problem for Iraola.

Liverpool's right-back position has been an issue for some time, with Jeremie Frimpong yet to consistently convince since his move to Anfield, Joe Gomez struggling for fitness and Conor Bradley facing an extended spell out.

Dominik Szoboszlai was again forced into the position during the recent 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest, underlining just how thin the options are.

Gusto would have provided proven Premier League quality and genuine competition, but the Reds simply could not make the numbers work.

That means Iraola may have to rely on different solutions until at least January, when the Reds can reassess the position.

For now, Liverpool will have to hope Frimpong can improve sooner rather than later, because failing to add another right-back leaves an obvious weakness in a squad otherwise heavily rebuilt this summer.