Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has played down reports that Malo Gusto will join Chelsea this month.

Gusto joined the club's academy in 2016, and he has worked his way up to the first team, where he has made 54 appearances.

The 19-year-old has been a prominent figure in the Lyon side this season, starting 15 of the club's 19 matches in Ligue 1.

After being impressed with his performances, Chelsea are hoping to sign the youngster this month, as they look to add to the six signings that they have already made in January.

With Reece James struggling with injuries, and Cesar Azpilicueta in the final 18 months of his deal, the Blues want to strengthen the right side of their defence.

Although Chelsea have reportedly agreed personal terms with Gusto, they have had an offer of £17m rejected by the French club.

While the Blues are still believed to be keen on completing the transfer before Tuesday's deadline, Lyon's president has insisted that the player will not be leaving this month.

Aulas told L'Equipe: "I can confirm that Malo [Gusto], a great hope for Lyon, will stay here at least until the end of the season".

According to The Mirror, Aulas comments may be an attempt to increase the price for Gusto, with Lyon looking to receive a fee in excess of £25m for a player that is under contract until June 2024.

There has also been a suggestion that Lyon would sanction a sale this month if Gusto immediately returned on loan for the rest of the season.

However, Chelsea are reluctant to agree to such a deal, as they are aiming to recruit a right-back before the end of the January transfer window.

Gusto has also been linked with a move to Manchester United, who have reportedly told the defender "not to rush his decision".

The Red Devils are not expected to submit a bid in the current transfer window, but they could make an approach in the summer.

Although Lyon have indicated that they are not prepared to part ways with Gusto, they have allegedly begun looking for potential replacements.

The Ligue 1 side have identified Tottenham Hotspur's Djed Spence and Brighton & Hove Albion's Tariq Lamptey as potential transfer targets. body check tags ::