Yardbarker
x
Mourinho wants to lure Liverpool star who still has 'plenty to prove'
PA Images/Alamy Images

Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho wants his club to sign Liverpool star Federico Chiesa during the summer to bolster their attack. Chiesa has struggled to receive significant game time after signing for Liverpool from Juventus in a bargain deal last summer.

The Reds secured their 20th English title as head coach Arne Slot accomplished the impressive feat in his debut season. Slot succeeded Jurgen Klopp during the summer of 2024 and used the current season to assess the squad he inherited.

Liverpool only signed Chiesa after the Italian became available for a bargain price of £10m with a further £2.5m add-ons. The 27-year-old struggled with recurring injuries at Juventus since suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury against AS Roma in 2022.

As Juventus continued to rush Chiesa back from nagging injuries, the Italian failed to build consistency in performance and availability. Nevertheless, Chiesa possesses incredible attacking prowess and is still regarded among the top attacking players in Europe despite his fitness struggles.

According to the Turkish outlet A Spor (via Football Italia), Mourinho wants Fenerbahce to sign Chiesa from Liverpool next summer. The rumour mill has relentlessly linked Chiesa with an early exit from Liverpool, something his father, Enrico Chiesa, vehemently denied.

However, things could change drastically if Slot decides that the Italian is not part of his plan for next season. At the same time, there is a good argument that the Dutchman allowed Chiesa to improve his fitness this season. Chiesa has plenty to prove at Liverpool, having all the qualities and the backing of the fanbase to still turn his fortunes around at Anfield.

The 27-year-old missed pre-season last summer, which played a big role in his struggle to receive game time this season. Chiesa has only made 12 appearances for Liverpool in all competitions this season, scoring two goals and providing two assists.

Many fans have enjoyed the Italian’s cameo and hope for the bargain deal to come to fruition next season. Liverpool have a big summer ahead with the expectation of many changes after their struggle in cup competitions.

Despite winning the Premier League, the Reds faced a similar late drop in form this season, which they suffered last season. Many players have failed to maintain their consistency and are ahead of Chiesa when it comes to being a surplus to the requirement.

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!