‘Federico Chiesa to leave Liverpool’
Federico Chiesa will leave Liverpool this summer and Arne Slot’s side will look to sign at least two players up front, according to Paul Scholes.
Chiesa was the sole signing to join Liverpool last summer as the Reds struggled to get several deals over the line, including now-Arsenal target Martin Zubimendi, who chose to remain with Real Sociedad.
The Italian winger was seen as a bargain, moving to Anfield for just £12.5million [Sky Sports] following interest from Barcelona and several Saudi Pro League sides.
However, Chiesa has been limited to just four Premier League substitute appearances, and 12 appearances in total in his maiden season in England.
Following a recurrence of the fitness issues that led to Juventus cheaply parting ways with their winger, Man United legend Scholes has tipped the 24-year-old to leave Liverpool in his column for TNT Sports.
Liverpool need at least two additions up front says Paul Scholes
Having been crowned champions of England after their 5-1 dismantling of a troubled Tottenham side, the focus for the Reds will almost immediately turn to summer recruitment.
Mohamed Salah committed his future to Liverpool by signing a two-year contract extension with the club earlier in April, but there remains issues at the striker position.
Neither Darwin Nunez nor Diogo Jota have been able to convince Slot they are deserving of the number nine position, and both could be sold this summer.
Chiesa has featured there at times, but having struggled to stay fit all season long, Scholes tipped him for an Anfield exit (28 April): “I don’t think Federico Chiesa will be there next year so I think they might need at least two players up top although I do think they’ve got the best forwards in the league anyway.”
Liverpool should continue to gamble on Federico Chiesa
Football Insider Verdict
Chiesa’s Liverpool career has been a very, very slow-burner but they should not give up on him coming good just yet.
The fitness issues that have plagued him so far are a concern, but there is little chance the Reds will do any better than simply recouping the fee they spent last year if they sell him this summer.
With plenty of quality options in wide areas, as evidenced by the Premier League title secured this season, Liverpool can afford to take their time with Chiesa.
His quality when fit is otherworldly; most England fans will remember the 24-year-old’s performances in Euro 2021, putting the Three Lions to the sword in the final.
If the Reds are able to help him find his fitness, and if Chiesa can find his form once again, not only will Liverpool have the chance to turn a massive profit, but they will also have one of the world’s best wingers at their disposal.