Federico Chiesa’s short and underwhelming stint at Liverpool appears to be nearing a premature end, with reports suggesting the Italian winger is poised for a loan departure this January transfer window. Having arrived from Juventus in the summer for a fee potentially reaching £12.5 million, Chiesa has struggled to make an impact at Anfield, hampered by injuries and fitness concerns. His limited game time under manager Arne Slot amounts to a mere four appearances across various competitions – two in the Carabao Cup, one in the Champions League, and a brief 18-minute cameo in the Premier League. This lack of playing time has prompted speculation about his future, with a return to Italy now seemingly on the cards.
Italian national team coach Luciano Spalletti has reportedly advised Chiesa that a revitalized performance in Serie A could pave the way for his reintegration into the national squad, further fueling the desire for a move. Serie A leaders Napoli, under the management of Antonio Conte, have emerged as the frontrunners to secure Chiesa’s services on loan. While Fiorentina and Inter Milan have also been linked with the winger, Napoli appear to be in the strongest position to capture his signature. It is understood that Chiesa’s agent, Fali Ramadani, has met with Liverpool representatives, and both parties have agreed to facilitate a loan move this month.
However, several potential obstacles could complicate the negotiations. Chiesa’s substantial £150,000-per-week salary presents a significant financial hurdle, although Liverpool are reportedly willing to cover a portion of his wages. Furthermore, Napoli’s desire to include a buy-option in the loan agreement is reportedly meeting resistance from Liverpool, who are seemingly reluctant to relinquish the player permanently at this stage. The complexities of the deal necessitate careful negotiation between the involved parties.
Napoli are expected to formalize their interest with a six-month loan offer in the coming days, as discussions continue between the clubs and Chiesa’s representatives. Liverpool manager Arne Slot has recently addressed Chiesa’s lack of game time, attributing it primarily to fitness concerns. Slot emphasized the ongoing efforts to improve Chiesa’s match fitness and integrate him into the team, while acknowledging the delicate balance between pushing him physically and ensuring his readiness for competitive action. The manager’s comments suggest that a temporary move could be beneficial for both the player and the club.
Chiesa’s current contract with Liverpool extends until the summer of 2028, indicating the club’s initial long-term vision for the player. Should a loan deal materialize with a buy-option included, the fee would likely need to exceed the initial £12.5 million investment made by Liverpool to secure his transfer from Juventus. This would protect Liverpool’s financial interests and potentially allow them to recoup their investment should Chiesa rediscover his form and attract permanent interest from another club.
The potential loan move represents a crossroads in Chiesa’s career. After a promising start at Juventus, his trajectory has stalled due to injuries and inconsistent form. A return to Italy could offer him the opportunity to regain his confidence and recapture the form that once made him a highly sought-after talent. For Liverpool, the loan arrangement presents a pragmatic solution to a challenging situation, allowing them to assess Chiesa’s progress from afar while mitigating the financial burden of his wages. The coming days will be crucial in determining the next chapter of Chiesa’s career and whether a return to his homeland can reignite his potential.
