Chelsea star wants to leave in January, club informed

Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto has communicated his desire to leave the Blues during the winter transfer window, according to BBC Sport.

The Frenchman has fallen down the pecking order at the Blues this campaign, and he has hardly played from the starting XI in recent months.

It is quite clear that manager Xabi Alonso does not see him as a key part of his plans, having recently picked Marcos Palestra over him at right-back.

Prior to that, Alonso picked Pedro Neto as the right wing-back in a 3-4-2-1 formation and it appears Gusto is now keen on pursuing a new challenge.

The former Lyon man has already conveyed his desire to the hierarchy and there is an acceptance that a transfer could materialise next year.

Manchester City were hot on the trail of the versatile full-back last summer, but they were put off by the reported £75 million set by the Blues.

Chelsea may have to accept a reduced package for a winter sale.