Napoli is reportedly “monitoring” Liverpool star Federico Chiesa, as the Italian champions begin to restructure its squad this summer, and the winger could have two options - with AC Milan reportedly interested as well.
Fresh on the back of securing the Serie A title, Antonio Conte wants to bring in two attacking wide players. As per Football Italia, Napoli is in talks to sign Bologna’s Dan Ndoye and is also keeping an eye on Mattia Zaccagni.
The outlet adds that the Serie A side tried to sign Ndoye in January and has returned with a fresh attempt this summer. The Swiss international is valued at around €40m ($46M/£34M).
Reports earlier on Wednesday claimed Chiesa has agreed personal terms with AC Milan, who missed out on European football for next season. These two rumors come as Chiesa admits he could be open to a Serie A return following his dismissal first season in the Premier League.
“That’s something to think about during the summer,” the ex-Juventus star told La Gazzetta dello Sport earlier this week.
“My family, my agent and I have a great relationship with Liverpool, and the goal is to be ready for the pre-season. We’ll find the best solution for everyone.
“I work every day with a Liverpool program to be in top shape for the tests on July 8.”
Federico Chiesa
It has been a tough first season for Chiesa at Liverpool.
Cheisa made just 14 appearances this season for Liverpool, with only four starts. Arne Slot failed to select the Italian from the off in a Premier League match until the Reds had wrapped up the title.
Once a mainstay of the Italian national team, Chiesa has now lost his place in the squad, something which he admitted could influence his decision-making this summer.
“What a thrill to win the Premier League," he said. "My future? I miss the blue shirt. I dream of playing in the World Cup."
The forward also admitted he could one day return to Juventus.
Federico Chiesa holds up a Liverpool shirt
Chiesa joined from Juventus last summer in a deal worth $13.2m (£10m/€11.9m).
Meanwhile, the Reds’ decision to sign Jeremie Frimping could further reduce Chiesa’s playing time. The Dutchman plays primarily as a right-back but is capable of operating further forward.
Liverpool saw his versatility as an attractive quality when sanctioning Frimpong’s transfer from Bayer Leverkusen, particularly given that Mohamed Salah is set to miss some of next season due to the African Cup of Nations.
As for Chiesa, he has been linked with a return to Italy all season and admitted during Liverpool’s recent trophy parade that the campaign had not gone as he anticipated.
“I'm so proud of the team. When I first came here they immediately made me feel like part of the team; they supported me during the tough time I had this year.
"I have to thank them all. I am their teammate. I'm one of the boys. Even in training, I tried to give my best."