Liverpool lead the Premier League and UEFA Champions League tables and are genuine contenders for both, but not much has changed in the Reds’ squad since last season.
LFC Store 70% Off Sale
LFC Winter Sale - Up to 70% off official merchandise
Home Jersey
LFC Home Stadium Jersey
Federico Chiesa was the only summer addition for Slot, but the Italian hasn’t yet made the impact that many supporters hoped he would.
After months of struggling for fitness and failing to earn minutes, Chiesa’s future at Anfield was called into question, but there could still be hope for the 27-year-old.
Chiesa linked with a move away
Although he has been at Liverpool for less than six months, Chiesa has already been repeatedly linked with a move back to his native Italy, with Napoli supposedly leading the race for his signature and for months now there have been claims made about him being unhappy at Anfield dating all the way back to October.
Now, football transfer expert Florian Plettenberg has cooled rumours of an early Chiesa exit, suggesting on X, formerly known as Twitter, that the Italian wants to see out his first season in Merseyside.
Plettenberg highlights Chiesa’s desire to stay at Liverpool and prove himself to Slot, something he has so far struggled to do.
Article continues under the advertisement
Chiesa delivered a promising but brief display after coming on very late in Liverpool’s last minute win over Brentford on Saturday, and the Italian’s jubilation was clear to see when the Reds took the lead.
Will Chiesa leave in January?
Although Plettenberg has revealed Chiesa’s willingness to stay at Anfield, a player’s desires aren’t always the driving factor in transfer moves.
Article continues under the advertisement
The Reds may feel that in order for Chiesa to return to his best form he needs consistent first team minutes, something he is unlikely to receive at Liverpool even if he does stay fit.
With the prospect of losing Mo Salah on a free transfer at the end of the season looming, sending Chiesa out on loan to play consistently and get minutes into his legs could prepare him for an increased role next campaign in Salah’s absence.
Article continues under the advertisement
Although this plan makes sense for Liverpool, having Chiesa as backup in a four-competition trophy push will be beneficial, and if the player isn’t pushing for a move away then it is likely he won’t be forced out of the door less than half a year after he was brought in.
If Chiesa can stay fit and rediscover his best form he could be an incredible asset for the Reds in the run-in and supporters will be keen to see him step up after a bright cameo against Brentford on Saturday.
0 Comments