Yardbarker
x
Liverpool ready to offer Cheisa in swap deal for €60 million Serie A ace
IPA

Liverpool are ready to offer Federico Chiesa as a makeweight in a deal for Ademola Lookman

Liverpool are reportedly preparing a strategic move to sign Ademola Lookman from Atalanta, with Federico Chiesa potentially being used as a makeweight in the deal. According to Italian outlet Quotidiano Sportivo, the Reds are keen on acquiring Lookman’s services as they look to bolster their attacking options ahead of the upcoming transfer window.

Despite clinching the Premier League title under Arne Slot, Liverpool are not resting on their laurels. The club is poised for a busy summer, targeting key reinforcements across multiple positions. With Darwin Nunez expected to depart, the Reds are keen to bring in a versatile forward who can provide goals and creativity in the final third. Lookman, who has enjoyed a stellar campaign in Serie A, has emerged as a prime target.

A proven goal-getter

Since making the switch from RB Leipzig to Atalanta, Ademola Lookman has transformed himself into one of the standout attackers in the Italian top flight. The 27-year-old has amassed an impressive 20 goals and seven assists across all competitions this season, establishing himself as a vital component of Atalanta’s frontline.

Lookman’s ability to play on both flanks and centrally makes him a perfect fit for Liverpool’s attacking setup. The former Everton winger has demonstrated exceptional pace, clinical finishing, and creativity, attributes that could see him slot seamlessly into Slot’s tactical system.

Liverpool had previously expressed interest in Lookman during the January transfer window, but Atalanta resisted offers, unwilling to lose one of their key players mid-season. However, with the summer window fast approaching, the Italian club may now be more open to negotiations, particularly with the prospect of Federico Chiesa being included in the deal.

A world-class make-weight

Liverpool’s proposed strategy to bring Lookman to Anfield could involve using Federico Chiesa as part of a swap deal. Chiesa, who joined the Reds last summer, has struggled to cement his place in the starting lineup under Slot, particularly with the emergence of other attacking options.

Atalanta were previously linked with Chiesa during the January window, and the Serie A club remains keen on the Italian winger. Including Chiesa in the deal could significantly reduce the cash component of the transfer and make it more palatable for Liverpool, who are also eyeing reinforcements in defence following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s expected departure to Real Madrid.

Lookman’s asking price is reportedly set at €60 million (£50.4m), but incorporating Chiesa as a makeweight could bring the overall cost down, allowing Liverpool to free up funds for other key targets.

This potential move highlights Liverpool’s evolving transfer strategy under Arne Slot. The Reds are keen on maintaining their domestic dominance while reinforcing areas of weakness, particularly in attack. Lookman’s resurgence in Serie A demonstrates his readiness for a return to the Premier League, where he previously struggled to make an impact with Everton.

Utilising Chiesa as part of the deal is a smart approach. While Chiesa undoubtedly has quality, he has not consistently delivered at Anfield, and Lookman’s ability to play multiple attacking roles could provide more tactical flexibility for Slot. Additionally, with Liverpool also targeting defensive reinforcements, a cash-plus-player deal would allow the club to manage its finances effectively while still acquiring top-tier talent.

However, securing Lookman won’t be straightforward. Atalanta will likely demand a substantial fee, and other suitors could complicate negotiations. If Liverpool can pull off this move, it would represent a shrewd piece of business as they look to build on their recent success and remain competitive both domestically and in Europe.

This article first appeared on The Kop Times and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!