Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho has expressed strong interest in signing Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa this summer. The 27-year-old, who moved to Liverpool from Juventus in August 2024 for around €12-15 million, struggled for game time at Anfield and faced several injuries during the season. Despite winning a Premier League medal with Liverpool, Chiesa made only 12 to 14 competitive appearances, with very limited minutes in the league, contributing two goals and two assists. Mourinho, seeking to bolster his wide attacking options at Fenerbahce, has reportedly identified Chiesa as a primary transfer target, hoping to revive his career outside of the highly competitive Liverpool squad.

However, Chiesa has rejected the opportunity to join Fenerbahce, prioritizing a return to Serie A instead. His preference is influenced by the need for regular playing time, especially with the 2026 World Cup approaching. Italian clubs such as AC Milan, Napoli, Atalanta, and Roma have shown interest, but his high salary demands—about €7 million net—pose a significant hurdle for any potential move. Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot, has already excluded Chiesa from the pre-season tour, signaling that he is no longer in Liverpool’s long-term plans, thus reinforcing the urgency of a transfer.

In summary, while Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce made an official approach to sign Federico Chiesa, the Italian international declined, preferring to return to Italy’s Serie A. Salary issues remain a significant obstacle for interested clubs in Italy, making the winger's next career step a matter of negotiation and adjustment.