Liverpool FC is bracing for a significant shake-up in their squad as reports indicate that AS Roma is gearing up to secure the signature of Italian winger Federico Chiesa. The 27-year-old, who joined the Reds from Juventus in August 2024 for a modest £12.5 million, has struggled to cement a regular place in Arne Slot’s lineup, prompting speculation about his future at Anfield. This potential transfer to Roma could mark a surprising turn of events for a player once hailed as a bargain signing with high potential.
Chiesa’s Struggles at Liverpool
Since arriving at Liverpool, Federico Chiesa’s time on Merseyside has been marred by limited playing time and persistent fitness issues. The Italian international, who signed a four-year contract, has made just 14 appearances across all competitions, totaling 466 minutes, with two goals and two assists to his name. His solitary start in the Premier League came late in the season against Brighton, long after Liverpool had secured the title. Injuries and a lack of pre-season preparation have hindered his ability to adapt to the high-intensity demands of Slot’s system, with the manager noting that Chiesa’s transition from Serie A to the Premier League has been challenging.
Chiesa’s absence from Liverpool’s pre-season tour squad for Asia, attributed to a minor fitness issue, further fueled speculation about his departure. Despite scoring in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Stoke City, his exclusion from the tour and limited minutes throughout the season suggest that he has struggled to break into a competitive attacking lineup that includes Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, Diogo Jota, and Darwin Nunez.
Roma’s Interest and Transfer Talks
Recent reports from Liverpool.com indicate that Roma has emerged as a frontrunner to sign Chiesa, with the Serie A club keen to bring the Italian back to his home country. The winger, who has 51 caps for Italy and was part of their Euro 2020-winning squad, is seen as a valuable addition to Roma’s attacking options. While details of the potential deal remain unclear, discussions have reportedly gained momentum, with Roma prepared to offer Chiesa a chance to revive his career in a familiar league.
Chiesa’s camp has been vocal about his desire to play regularly, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, where he aims to secure a spot in Italy’s squad. His agent, Fali Ramadani, previously dismissed January transfer rumors, stating that Chiesa was happy at Liverpool and that the club had no intention of letting him go. However, the lack of consistent game time and the arrival of new signings like Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong may have shifted the dynamics, pushing Chiesa further down the pecking order.
Implications for Liverpool
The potential departure of Chiesa would represent a significant shock for Liverpool, given the optimism surrounding his arrival less than a year ago. Sporting director Richard Hughes had viewed the signing as a low-risk, high-reward move, with Chiesa’s versatility and work rate seen as a perfect fit for Slot’s high-pressing style. However, his inability to stay fit and compete with Liverpool’s established attackers has led to a reassessment of his role.
If Roma secures Chiesa’s signature, Liverpool is unlikely to recoup the £12.5 million they paid Juventus, given his limited impact. The Reds may also need to cover a portion of his £120,000-a-week wages to facilitate a loan or permanent transfer, as Serie A clubs often face financial constraints. This move could free up resources for Liverpool to pursue other targets, such as a new No. 9, with the club reportedly close to signing Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike for a fee that could exceed $110 million.
What’s Next for Chiesa?
For Chiesa, a move to Roma could offer a fresh start and a chance to rediscover the form that made him a standout at Fiorentina and Juventus before his 2022 ACL injury. The Italian capital could provide a less intense environment than the Premier League, allowing him to rebuild his confidence and fitness. Roma’s interest also aligns with their ambition to strengthen their squad, as evidenced by their recent signing of Moroccan midfielder Neil El Aynaoui.
Chiesa has expressed a willingness to work hard to prove himself, stating in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport that he is following a Liverpool training program to be in top shape for the 2025/26 pre-season. However, with Napoli and AC Milan also linked, a return to Italy seems increasingly likely, especially if Roma can finalize a deal before the transfer window closes.
Conclusion
Federico Chiesa’s potential move to Roma marks a surprising twist in his Liverpool career, which began with high hopes but has been derailed by injuries and limited opportunities. For Liverpool, this could be an opportunity to streamline their squad and focus on new signings to bolster their title defense. For Roma, securing a player of Chiesa’s caliber could be a coup, provided they can navigate the financial hurdles. As the transfer saga unfolds, Liverpool fans will be watching closely to see if this shock move materializes and what it means for the club’s future.