Federico Chiesa speaks out on possible Liverpool exit already
Federico Chiesa could leave Liverpool this summer after struggling for game time this season.
Chiesa, 27, impressed at the European Championships with Italy in 2021 and earned himself a move to Juventus from Fiorentina.
The Italian delivered 38 goal contributions during four seasons at The Old Lady before falling out of favour under Thiago Motta, sealing an unexpected move to Anfield as a result.
Chiesa is expected to move on already, though, as he is not set to be in Arne Slot’s plans.
Chiesa could return to Italy with Liverpool move not his choice
The winger has insisted that his focus is on preparations for the Reds’ pre-season, but Chiesa has admitted he is open to a return to Italian football.
Chiesa is due to report back at Liverpool’s training centre on 8 July, but plans could change with Slot set for a busy summer.
The Euros winner played just six Premier League games for Liverpool since his £10million move.
Asked about a return to Italy, Chiesa told Gazzetta dello Sport: “That’s something to think about during the summer.
“My family, my agent and I have a great relationship with Liverpool, and the goal is to be ready for the pre-season. We’ll find the best solution for everyone.”
Chiesa could link up with his former manager Max Allegri, who has recently been appointed manager of AC Milan.
The 27-year-old was a regular under Allegri during their time together at Juventus, but last summer, Chiesa was frozen out by the then-manager Thiago Motta.
The Italian would have preferred to stay at Juventus and has admitted he is open to a return.
“When I returned from vacation, I spoke with Thiago Motta, who clearly told me, ‘you’re not part of the project, find a new club’.
“But I still feel great affection for Juve and the fans.”
Chiesa only qualified for a Premier League winners’ medal when he played his fifth league game in a 3-1 defeat to Chelsea.
In doing so, he became one of few Italians to receive a Premier League winners’ medal, with former Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli another, in the 2011/12 season.
Liverpool’s Chiesa signing didn’t make sense
At the time, £10million for a European Championship winner seemed like a bargain.
However, it hasn’t worked out the way Liverpool wanted, with Chiesa struggling to earn his place.
With so many attacking reinforcements in recent seasons, the deal for the Italian now seems like a waste of money, but he would leave with a Premier League title.
Liverpool are now set for a busy summer, with Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz, and Diogo Jota potentially joining Chiesa out the door.
The Reds have already signed Jeremie Frimpong, with Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez expected to follow, in what could be a huge period of change under Slot.