It has become clear what the future likely holds for Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa going into the 2026 January transfer window.
The Italian has endured a difficult 2025/26 at Anfield so far, hardly featuring under Arne Slot.
Despite a lack of game time, it was previously suggested that Chiesa wanted to fight for his place in this Liverpool team.
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However, recent news, which has picked up in the last 48 hours, suggests that the winger’s future may be out of his hands.
Federico Chiesa of Liverpool acknowledges the fans after the team's victory during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Eintracht Frankfurt and Liverpool FC at Frankfurt Stadion.
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Federico Chiesa will struggle to play again if Liverpool sign Antoine Semenyo
It has been suggested that Liverpool are ‘confident’ about signing Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth in 2026.
Another update claimed that Slot’s men are frontrunners for Semenyo ahead of Manchester United, with his £65m release clause set to become active in January.
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“Anfield was scary. I scored, I did a back-flip at the Kop end. I’m thinking ‘I’ve got them rattled.’ They’re clapping, celebrating, pushing the team on even more. I’m thinking ‘oh my god.’”
Antoine Semenyo on the best stadium he ever played at.
Antoine Semenyo of AFC Bournemouth celebrates scoring during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Bournemouth at Elland Road
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Liverpool could save money on the winger if they are able to hold out and sign him in the summer instead.
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But given his current form and links to the likes of Man Utd, it’s a deal that will probably have to be done in January.
In turn, that would see Chiesa pushed even further down the pecking order at Anfield.
The former Juventus man can play all across the frontline, but so can Semenyo.
Liverpool have plenty of competition on the left wing already, with the Bournemouth ace likely coming in to compete with Salah instead.
That has been Chiesa’s role in 2025/26 so far, scoring two and assisting three in 344 minutes across all competitions.
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But it is very hard to see the 28-year-old staying if yet another versatile winger is signed.
Liverpool view on Federico Chiesa exit
Despite hardly featuring for Liverpool this season, fans have praised Chiesa’s efforts in a fringe role.
His limited but solid displays also appear to have caught the eye of a major Italian club.
It has emerged that Napoli are exploring a move for Chiesa, with a potential loan move in January discussed.
Liverpool are understood to be open to a temporary departure, as long as an obligation to buy is included in the deal.