Liverpool star Federico Chiesa could return to Serie A, with Inter Milan keen on signing him.
A year after his high-profile move to Liverpool, Federico Chiesa finds himself at a crossroads. Initially seen as a major career step forward, his switch from Juventus to Anfield has turned into an uphill battle. The Italian winger, who arrived with high expectations, has struggled to make an impact under Arne Slot, largely due to fitness concerns and the fierce competition within Liverpool’s attacking ranks.
Chiesa’s transition to English football has been far from smooth. The Premier League’s intensity and Slot’s demanding physical requirements meant he needed months to adapt, following a series of injury setbacks.
Despite glimpses of his talent, he has managed to play just 1% of Liverpool’s total minutes this season — limited to a handful of short substitute appearances. At 27, he knows he cannot afford another wasted season, making a return to Italy an increasingly likely outcome.
Inter Milan keen on Federico Chiesa
According to Inter Live, Inter Milan are one of several Serie A clubs closely monitoring Chiesa’s situation. With an impending squad shake-up in their attacking department, set to lose Marko Arnautovic and Joaquin Correa as free agents, while Mehdi Taremi’s departure also looms, the Nerazzurri need fresh reinforcements.
For Chiesa, a return to Serie A is more than just a preference; it is a necessity. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, he cannot afford another season on the fringes. While Napoli and AS Roma are also keen and could offer him a more guaranteed starting role, Inter’s packed schedule across multiple competitions means he would still see significant minutes, even if not always in the starting XI.
Liverpool open to loan deal but wages pose a challenge
Liverpool, aware of Chiesa’s struggles, are reportedly open to sanctioning a loan move with an option to buy. The structure of the deal would suit Inter’s financial planning, but the main obstacle remains Chiesa’s hefty €7.5 million annual salary — a figure that is beyond the Nerazzurri’s current wage structure.
For the move to materialise, either Chiesa would need to take a significant pay cut, or Liverpool would have to subsidise part of his wages. With Inter’s new ownership under Oaktree also considering financial sustainability, negotiations will be crucial to finding common ground.
Federico Chiesa’s talent is undeniable, but his time at Liverpool has been a stark reminder that not every player adapts seamlessly to the Premier League. A return to Serie A, particularly to a club like Inter, could reignite his career, offering him a fresh start in a league where he has already proven his ability.
However, for this move to work, Chiesa must accept that he is no longer in a position to dictate terms. A pay cut or a compromise on playing time might be necessary. If he is willing to make the sacrifice, a return to Italy could be the best way for him to reclaim his place among Europe’s top wingers.