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Liverpool’s January transfer window has been dominated by speculation surrounding outgoings as much as arrivals, and no player embodies this uncertainty more than Federico Chiesa. The Italian winger, who departed Turin in acrimonious circumstances just 18 months ago, is now being linked with a sensational return.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Chiesa is actively pushing for an immediate return to Juventus, with the 28-year-old making his intentions crystal clear to all parties involved. The Italian publication reports that Chiesa is in a hurry to define his future and would already be back in Turin if the decision rested solely with him.
Gazzetta describes the opportunity as “a train so fascinating that he wants to board immediately, without running the risk of arriving late and missing it”.
Chiesa is reportedly maintaining excellent relations with Liverpool and isn’t forcing their hand, but his choice is unequivocal. Negotiations between Juventus and Liverpool have begun, with mediations underway to find a compromise that satisfies all parties. The Bianconeri are insisting on a loan deal, while Liverpool have thus far only opened the door to a permanent transfer.
However, the Anfield club is also playing hardball even if Juventus do end up putting an offer for a permanent acquisition. It is asserted that the Reds are waiting for Mohamed Salah to return from the Africa Cup of Nations before making any definitive decisions on Chiesa’s future. Egypt advanced to the quarter-finals on Monday after Salah scored in a 3-1 extra-time victory over Benin, meaning the Egyptian won’t return to Anfield until at least mid January.
Compounding Liverpool’s reluctance is the devastating injury to Alexander Isak, who suffered a fractured fibula and broken ankle in the 2-1 win over Tottenham in December and is expected to be sidelined for most of the campaign.
Should Salah return and be open to remaining until the end of the season, then perhaps Liverpool sanction the sale of Chiesa. But for now, it seems Juventus will have to wait.
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