Liverpool hold transfer talks with forward ahead of January decision - 'See what happens'
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Liverpool Hold Transfer Talks with Forward Ahead of January Decision - 'See What Happens'
Liverpool FC are navigating complex transfer dynamics in the January 2026 window, with ongoing discussions centered on winger Federico Chiesa's potential exit and a replacement target.[1]
Chiesa, who joined Liverpool 18 months ago, has struggled for consistent playing time under manager Arne Slot. Recently benched in favor of Cody Gakpo during a 2-2 draw with Fulham, the 28-year-old Euro 2020 star is pushing for a return to Serie A with Juventus. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Chiesa is willing to make a "significant" sacrifice by slashing his €6m-per-year salary to facilitate the move, stating it's "like: reach an agreement between the clubs and my salary won’t be a problem."[1]
Liverpool, the Premier League champions, are reluctant to let Chiesa go immediately due to a forward-line shortage, exacerbated by an injury to Alexander Isak. Valued at €20m, his departure could yield a profit, but Slot lacks depth. This has opened talks for RB Leipzig winger Antonio Nusa as a potential replacement, with progress potentially accelerating Chiesa's transfer.[1]
Meanwhile, broader squad needs loom. Liverpool recently signed 18-year-old Senegalese defender Mor Talla Ndiaye from Amitie FC for £1m after a failed bid for Marc Guéhi.[2] Defensive reinforcements are prioritized, with links to Borussia Dortmund's Julian Ryerson, a 28-year-old Norwegian right-back whose pace and six assists this season fit Slot's system—though his age and Dortmund's reluctance pose challenges.[3][4]
Winger options include Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo, amid uncertainties over Mohamed Salah's future, though Slot has expressed no desire for him to leave.[2] Other rumors mention Real Madrid's Rodrygo.[5] As Slot assesses "see what happens" in January, balancing exits like Chiesa (and prior Luis Díaz to Bayern) with incomings will define the window.[1][2]
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