Atalanta are showing a strong interest in a potential transfer deal for Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa this summer, CaughtOffside understands. Chiesa has struggled for playing time since his move to Anfield last summer, and it now looks like he could make a speedy return to Italy. Atalanta are set to make an official €12 million bid for Liverpool exile Federico Chiesa, according to SportItalia.
The Serie A club are preparing to formalize their interest with a concrete offer for the Italian winger, who has found first-team opportunities extremely limited under Arne Slot. Atalanta is reportedly ready to pay Liverpool $14 million to sign Federico Chiesa — which is the same amount of money that the Reds paid Juventus to land the winger a year ago.
Liverpool’s Disappointing Investment
Chiesa’s move to Anfield has been one of the most underwhelming transfers in recent Liverpool history. Liverpool paid an initial $13 million (£10 million) for Chiesa plus around $3.4 million (£2.5 million) in potential add-ons. The winger has started just one Premier League game and managed only limited appearances throughout the campaign.
Chiesa is nearing the end of a frustrating first campaign on Merseyside, having started only three of his 12 appearances across all competitions. His lack of playing time has been compounded by injury issues and intense competition for places in Liverpool’s attacking positions.
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Multiple Italian Clubs Circle
Atalanta face competition from other Serie A giants for Chiesa’s signature. AC Milan initiated contact to sign Federico Chiesa from Liverpool, with the Rossoneri exploring their own move for the former Juventus star. Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa is one of the names on Napoli’s list, according to Alfredo Pedulla’s report for Football Italia.
The interest from multiple Italian clubs underscores Chiesa’s reputation in his homeland, where he remains highly rated despite his struggles in the Premier League. His Euro 2020 performances and previous success with Juventus have kept him on the radar of Italy’s top teams.
Lookman Connection Could Complicate Deal
Atalanta are reportedly eyeing a move for Liverpool flop Federico Chiesa – but only if they can sell star player Ademola Lookman this summer. The Nigerian forward’s potential departure to Inter Milan could free up funds and squad space for Chiesa’s arrival at the Gewiss Stadium.
Liverpool could use Federico Chiesa in a deal to sign Ademola Lookman from Atalanta. Chiesa joined Liverpool from Juventus last summer and has failed to make an impact at Anfield, with injuries and competition for places limiting his appearances. This potential swap arrangement could benefit both clubs, giving Liverpool a proven Premier League performer while offering Chiesa regular playing time.
Liverpool’s Willingness to Sell
The Merseyside club appear ready to cut their losses on the Chiesa experiment. CaughtOffside understands that Liverpool would likely ask for a fee in the region of €25-30m to let Chiesa go this summer. However, this valuation may prove unrealistic given his limited impact and the need to recoup their investment quickly.
Liverpool’s position has softened considerably, with recent reports suggesting they would accept an offer matching their original outlay. The Premier League champions want to avoid a significant financial loss while freeing up wages and squad space for other targets.
Player’s Own Admission
Speaking in an interview with Italian media in June, Chiesa revealed that a decision would soon be taken over his future. “The year is over. But it’s an experience I would do again,” he stated, suggesting acceptance that his Liverpool chapter may be closing.
The winger’s comments indicate a professional approach to his difficult situation, maintaining respect for Liverpool while acknowledging the reality of his limited role in Slot’s plans.
Tactical Misfit Under Slot
Chiesa’s struggles can partly be attributed to tactical changes implemented by new manager Arne Slot. The Dutch coach’s system has not suited the Italian’s playing style, with other wingers proving more effective in the preferred formations and approaches adopted this season.
His pace and directness, which made him effective at Juventus, have not translated successfully to Liverpool’s more structured attacking patterns. This tactical incompatibility has become increasingly apparent as the season progressed.
Summer Resolution Expected
All parties involved appear eager to resolve Chiesa’s situation before the transfer window closes. Atalanta’s preparation of an official bid indicates serious intent, while Liverpool’s openness to negotiations suggests a quick resolution could be reached.
The coming weeks will prove crucial in determining whether Chiesa can revive his career back in Italy, where his talents may be better utilized in a more familiar environment.
