Liverpool Miss Out on Attempt to Sign Chelsea Defender on Loan

Liverpool are looking to reinforce their backline as the summer transfer window edges towards its final phase. However, a late move for Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto has failed to materialise.

According to reports from Fabrice Hawkins, Liverpool made a final push today, on Premier League transfer deadline day, to sign Gusto on loan, but the attempt ended without success.

The Reds had identified Gusto as an ideal candidate to strengthen their defensive rotation, but the clock eventually ran out on their pursuit.

It is reported that both clubs failed to reach an agreement over the financial aspects of the deal.

Chelsea’s Malo Gusto during the Carabao Cup match at Stamford Bridge, London. Picture date: Thursday August 27, 2026. (Photo by Adam Davy/PA Images via Getty Images)

While Liverpool were only interested in a temporary solution to their depth issues, Chelsea were not prepared to let Gusto leave without a significant long-term commitment from the buying club.

Liverpool were only willing to consider a straight loan deal for the France international, but Chelsea would only sanction his departure if it involved a permanent sale. Liverpool were reportedly unable to finance a permanent deal for Gusto at this stage, having spent heavily on their frontline.

With the Reds now unable to finalise the deal, they will have to navigate the first half of the season with their current defensive options.

Liverpool possess fewer options at right-back, and it remains unclear how they will cope as the fixture list becomes more congested with domestic and European commitments.