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Juventus have reignited contact with Liverpool over the potential return of Federico Chiesa after growing frustrated with Moroccan striker Youssef En-Nesyri’s hesitancy to complete a loan move from Fenerbahce. The Italian giants are scrambling to bolster their attacking options before the January window slams shut on February 2, with Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee also emerging as an alternative target.
The En-Nesyri situation has frustrated the Bianconeri, who had negotiated a €5 million loan fee with Fenerbahce plus a €20 million purchase option, only for the 28-year-old forward to balk at the temporary nature of the arrangement. Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini confirmed on Sunday that negotiations had stalled, stating bluntly: “En-Nesyri is perplexed about the formula, the deal is closed for us. We cannot and do not want to buy him permanently”.
Gazetta Dello Sport have now confirmed that Juventus are back in for Chiesa, reporting:
“The best way to put behind him the case of the Moroccan striker, protagonist of an about-face that irritated Juve and infuriated Fenerbahce, is also to start the last full week of negotiations: from new contacts for Zirkzee (United) to those for Federico Chiesa (Liverpool).”
Liverpool held a firm stance earlier in the January window. Any January exit must be permanent, with the club demanding between £13-17 million to recoup their initial investment. This clashes with Juventus’ preferred loan structure, which Italian clubs typically favor to navigate financial constraints during winter windows. Reports indicate Liverpool will only consider a loan with an obligation to buy, unwilling to part with Chiesa temporarily.
The Italian winger has reportedly signaled his willingness to facilitate a return to Serie A by accepting a reduced salary. It remains to be seen whether the Italian club can sort out a deal for Chiesa before the transfer window slams shut.
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