Liverpool have been linked with a move for Real Madrid winger Rodrygo in recent weeks, but it's a transfer that would not concern the Reds' dressing room
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - AUGUST 4: Federico Chiesa of Liverpool during the pre-season friendly match between Liverpool v Athletic Club Bilbao at Anfield on August 4, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
Federico Chiesa has been linked with a move away from Liverpool throughout the transfer window
(Image: Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA, Getty Images)
Liverpool's top players may be unperturbed the prospect of Manchester City signing Rodrygo ahead of them, as they're perfectly content with Federico Chiesa.
Speculation about City's interest in the Real Madrid winger, who has been linked with a move to Anfield over the summer, has been rife. Pep Guardiola's side are understood to be interested, but the chances of him moving to the Etihad Stadium may depend on the future of Savinho, who has been of interest to Tottenham Hotspur.
Despite only joining City last year, Savinho is already being earmarked for an exit. Tottenham have been negotiating to sign the Brazilian with the Cityzens hoping to secure a fee of around £70million.
If Guardiola's side were to achieve their full asking price for Savinho, it would provide the necessary funds to chase Rodrygo, who is believed to have been on the market since Xabi Alonso was appointed as head coach. The Reds themselves were linked with Rodrygo earlier in the transfer window before those rumours died down.
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Nevertheless, Liverpool seem satisfied with Chiesa, whose future has been the subject of speculation throughout the summer. He joined the club as Arne Slot's first and only arrival of the 2024 summer transfer window and featured little in his debut campaign.
However, his heroic performance from the bench against Bournemouth may well have secured himself a place in Slot's plans. The Reds let a two-goal lead slip after Cherries forward Antoine Semenyo scored two quick goals in the second half.
Slot sent on Chiesa, who with one of his first touches of the ball, volleyed in a vital winner, before Mohamed Salah restored the two goal advantage in injury time. The joy of Liverpool's players was palpable when Chiesa found the back of the net.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - AUGUST 15: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Federico Chiesa of Liverpool celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Bournemouth at Anfield on August 15, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Chiesa was flocked by Liverpool players after his winning goal
He had to grapple with injuries and a lack of opportunities in his debut campaign. But the Euro 2020 winner has still won the respect of his team-mates.
Known for his friendly demeanour and constant encouragement of others, he is a valued member of Slot's squad, even amidst on-pitch difficulties. His recent performance against Bournemouth suggests he is ready to play a more significant role in Liverpool's season.
After the victory was secured, Slot himself suggested there may be a place in his squad for Chiesa when the transfer window slams shut on September 1. In his post match press conference, the Dutchman said: "As long as he is here it is definitely at Liverpool and I have no reason to believe it is going to change.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - AUGUST 15: Arne Slot manager / head coach of Liverpool hugs Federico Chiesa of Liverpool at full time during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Bournemouth at Anfield on August 15, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
Slot said he was pleased for Chiesa (Image: Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA, Getty Images)
"He had a hard time last season getting his fitness ready and unfortunately for him, he then missed the Asian tour and Joe Gomez the same.
“We lost Conor Bradley in the end so all my substitutions were related to players who couldn't go 90 minutes. At 2-2 you need a number nine.
“I brought him in and he delivered and that is always positive for your future at the club. The fans sung for him so many times last season and it is very nice for him to give them something in return."