Liverpool have seen an attempt to strengthen their defence rejected as Andoni Iraola continues assessing his options late in the window.
The Reds have already completed a major summer overhaul following several significant departures from their first-team squad.
Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate all left on free transfers, while Curtis Jones completed a permanent move to Inter Milan.
Stefan Bajcetic returned permanently to Celta Vigo, with Harvey Elliott also leaving Anfield on a season-long loan to Valencia.
Liverpool responded by adding Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain in a deal worth up to £123 million.
Victor Munoz also arrived from Osasuna, while Ronald Araujo joined on loan from Barcelona with an option to buy.
Jeremy Jacquet has also become part of Iraola’s defensive options after overcoming the injury issues that delayed his involvement.
Liverpool have now attempted another defensive addition, although their proposed deal has been turned down.
According to Fabrice Hawkins, Chelsea rejected Liverpool’s loan offer for right-back Malo Gusto after the Reds made a late attempt to sign him.
Liverpool were ready to pursue a loan move without a mandatory purchase clause attached to the agreement.
Chelsea, however, preferred a permanent transfer rather than allowing the France international to leave Stamford Bridge on those terms.
The supplied report states that Liverpool do not currently have the financial resources required to complete a permanent deal.
That leaves the clubs apart over the structure of any potential transfer during the final stages of the window.
Gusto’s future had already attracted interest elsewhere during the summer, with Manchester City previously linked with the defender.
Chelsea nevertheless appear set to retain him unless their position changes before the window closes.
Liverpool have started their Premier League campaign with consecutive 2–2 draws against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.
🚨 Liverpool made a late attempt to sign Malo Gusto on loan today, but the move collapsed after Chelsea insisted on a permanent deal, which the Reds were unable to complete due to lack of budget.
(Source: @FabriceHawkins) pic.twitter.com/BQ189K7TtC
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) September 1, 2026
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