Chiesa’s Potential Return to Juventus: Liverpool Sets Transfer Terms

Liverpool has outlined its conditions for what could be one of the more unexpected transfer reversals in recent memory. Reports from Italy indicate that the Premier League club has informed Juventus it will require approximately €10 million (£8.3 million) to facilitate the re-signing of Federico Chiesa during the January transfer window.

The 28-year-old winger departed the Allianz Stadium just 18 months ago, leaving amid a contract dispute and injury issues that had sidelined him from the first-team picture in Turin. His move to Merseyside was seen as an opportunity for a fresh start, a chance to reinvigorate a career that had somewhat stagnated in Serie A. However, despite flashes of brilliance and gaining popularity within the squad, Chiesa has found consistent playing time elusive under manager Arne Slot.

As the January window opens, speculation surrounding a return to Juventus is intensifying. Tuttosport reports that the Old Lady is actively considering the possibility of bringing back their former star. Liverpool is open to negotiations but insists on a fair price. The €10 million valuation is not arbitrary; it reflects the remaining book value of the player. Having acquired him for a reported €15 million on a four-year contract, selling him for €10 million would allow Liverpool to avoid recording a capital loss on their accounts, facilitating a clean financial break.

One significant hurdle for Juventus could be the deal structure. Italian clubs often prefer “loan with option to buy” arrangements to navigate financial constraints during the winter window. However, sources suggest Liverpool is largely uninterested in a temporary solution.

The Reds are reportedly advocating for a permanent transfer or, at the very least, a loan that includes a firm obligation to buy. The club’s hierarchy considers Chiesa a valuable asset who has not found his place in the starting lineup, rather than a distressed asset suitable for loaning out. If Juventus or any other interested party wishes to secure the services of the Euro 2020 champion, they will need to present a cash offer.

This position effectively places the onus on Juventus. The Bianconeri must decide whether they are willing to allocate a transfer fee and salary for a player they considered surplus to their needs less than two years ago. However, the tactical environment in Turin has evolved since Chiesa’s exit, and there is optimism that he could inject the missing spark into their attacking play.

Chiesa’s tenure at Liverpool will likely be remembered fondly, even if it concludes prematurely. He has cultivated a “cult hero” status at Anfield, thanks in large part to his infectious enthusiasm and dynamic style of play when on the pitch. Although he was technically part of the squad that clinched the Premier League title, contributing to the team effort, his individual statistics have not been particularly remarkable.

Nonetheless, affection from fans does not translate into playing time. Under Arne Slot, competition for positions in the forward line remains intense. With the likes of Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, Florian Wirtz, and Jeremie Frimpong vying for starting roles, Chiesa has often found himself relegated to the sidelines.

For a player of his caliber, remaining on the bench is no longer viable. At 28, Chiesa is at the peak of his physical capabilities and requires rhythm and continuity—elements he has struggled to find in England. The intensity of the Premier League is not the issue; rather, it is the significant depth of quality ahead of him in the pecking order.

Chiesa’s motivation to depart stems from the approach of the 2026 World Cup. With the tournament set to take place in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, every player with international aspirations understands that playing time is the key currency for national team selectors.

Chiesa remains a crucial asset for Italy but cannot expect to be a starter for the Azzurri if he is scarcely featuring for his club. A return to Serie A, a league in which he is well-acquainted, would provide him with the platform to demonstrate his fitness and form on a regular basis.

Reports suggest that Chiesa has already begun exploring the possibility of a return, having allegedly reached out to former Juventus teammates, including striker Dusan Vlahovic and midfielder Manuel Locatelli, to discuss the dynamics of a potential comeback.