Chiesa Transfer Claims Dismissed by Juventus Boss: “It’s the First I’ve Heard of It!”

Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has categorically dismissed rumors of a January return for Federico Chiesa from Liverpool, stating it was the "first he'd heard of it."[6] This comes amid conflicting reports linking the 28-year-old Italian winger back to Turin, where he played before his £12m move to Anfield in summer 2024.[1]

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that Juventus made "formal contact" with Liverpool to express interest in re-signing Chiesa on loan, as the Serie A side seeks to add a winger. Chiesa is said to be "appreciated" at Juve and open to a return, potentially to work under Spalletti, who has praised him as Italy's equivalent to tennis star Jannik Sinner. However, any deal hinges on Liverpool's decision, with the Reds currently light in attack due to injuries to Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike, plus Mohamed Salah's AFCON absence.[1][2][7]

Chiesa has struggled for minutes under Arne Slot, starting just one Premier League game this season despite Liverpool's title defense. In 15 league appearances, he's been mostly a substitute, with three Champions League cameos. Overall, he's made 34 outings for Liverpool (469 minutes), scoring twice against Bournemouth and Crystal Palace.[4]

Liverpool journalist James Pearce refuted Romano's claims, insisting there has been "no contact, either formal or informal" from Juventus. The Reds have no plans to let Chiesa leave mid-season, prioritizing squad depth amid forward shortages. Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport claimed Juve stepped up pursuit after learning of Chiesa's willingness, proposing a loan with an option to buy, but Liverpool reportedly prefers a permanent sale. Il Corriere dello Sport added that Chiesa's agent will visit Italy soon, though no decision until Salah returns.[3][5][8]

Despite Napoli's interest in a loan, Liverpool remains firm. Spalletti's denial quashes the speculation for now, leaving Chiesa's future at Anfield uncertain but stable.[4][9]

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