Liverpool look likely to see a number of first-team players depart during the summer transfer window.
The Reds are planning numerous changes to the squad, with some big additions coming in.
But while signings such as the record-breaking capture of Florian Wirtz are sure to excite supporters, they could come at a cost.
The Liverpool owners have always tried to operate a sustainable business model, which tends to mean they do not spend beyond their means.
As a result, big signings such as Wirtz are likely to be offset by several smaller sales.
One of those could come in the shape of Federico Chiesa, who has had a difficult first season at Liverpool. But with the campaign now over and Chiesa back home and talking to the Italian press, the forward has surprisingly suggested he could stay at Anfield.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Federico Chiesa ‘wouldn’t mind’ Liverpool stay
Chiesa’s season has been a fascinating sub-plot of what has been a superb debut campaign for Arne Slot.
The Italian was Slot’s only immediate signing of his first summer in charge, but subsequently went on to play only 14 times, making just one Premier League start.
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This has led to relentless suggestions that Chiesa is set to leave Liverpool this summer, with a move back to Serie A the most likely scenario.
However, when asked for his plans in a new interview with Corriere dello Sport, Chiesa has admitted that he is very much open to staying at Anfield.
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“The year is over. But it’s an experience I would do again,” says the 27-year-old.
“Soon I will sit down at the table with the club, Fali (Ramadani, his agent) and my family to find the best solution. I wouldn’t mind staying in Liverpool at all.”
Chiesa opens up on Arne Slot relationship
In the circumstances, Chiesa could not be blamed for being frustrated beyond words with his time in England. However, he is remarkably gracious during his interview, explaining how much he has enjoyed assimilating into Liverpool.
The Italy international also admits that it was virtually impossible to fault Slot for playing him more due to how well Liverpool were playing, and commends the Reds’ head coach for his ‘respectful’ attitude towards him.
“At the beginning I felt the frustration of the radical change and of being far behind the group, then there was the injury,” says Chiesa.
“Up until the match against PSG, Liverpool was ahead of everyone, in the semi-final of Carabao and among the favourites in the Champions League, which PSG won. Could I start to discuss the choices of Slot who has always been very respectful towards me, as well as the club?
“The desire to play was there, I put it aside, I understood the situation. I put aside every form of individualism.”