Liverpool forward Federico Chiesa faces an uncertain future at the club following a fresh injury setback that has delayed his return to action. The 26-year-old Italian winger, who joined from Juventus, will assess his options in January if he continues to struggle for playing time once he recovers from his current muscle problem.
Chiesa's injury troubles began during Liverpool's pre-season preparations. According to reports on the injury, he picked up a small muscle injury in the friendly against Como and subsequently missed Liverpool's Premier League opener against Newcastle United. The setback came after he had stepped out of a training session on 21 January, when Liverpool initially reported he had felt something in his back before the Marseille fixture.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has indicated the issue is not expected to be long-term. Slot previously stated that Chiesa attempted to feature in the warm-up before the Marseille match, suggesting the player was keen to return. According to the club's injury update, the current expectation is that Chiesa could be available for selection ahead of the Bournemouth fixture scheduled for 24 January.
Will Chiesa stay at Liverpool?
Chiesa's commitment to Liverpool depends heavily on his ability to secure regular first-team football once he recovers. If he finds himself on the periphery of Arne Slot's plans when he returns to fitness, the forward is likely to pursue a move away from Anfield during the January transfer window. His willingness to leave would mark a significant development for a player who arrived with considerable expectations.
What about other Premier League transfer activity?
Transfer activity across the Premier League remains brisk as clubs prepare for the January window. Former Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho is in advanced discussions with at least two Premier League clubs over a potential move, according to fresh reports on Sancho's negotiations. The identities of the interested clubs have not been publicly disclosed, though talks are said to be ongoing. This development follows months of speculation, as multiple Premier League sides have been monitoring Sancho's availability.
Manchester United remain active in the market, maintaining their interest in Leicester City midfielder Louis Page, the 18-year-old England youth international they missed out on during the previous transfer deadline. The club has also completed a deal to sign Liverpool's 16-year-old midfielder Isaac Konde, bolstering their academy ranks.
Liverpool and Manchester United have both made direct contact with Wolverhampton Wanderers regarding a potential move for 18-year-old winger Matheus Mane, indicating strong competition for the young talent. Manchester City, meanwhile, are keeping tabs on Atletico Madrid midfielder Alex Baena but are unlikely to make a move for the 25-year-old in January.
What other deals are in the pipeline?
AC Milan are preparing to make a move to sign Brazil forward Endrick, 20, on loan from Real Madrid in January. The Serie A club sees the young striker as a potential addition to strengthen their attacking options. Brentford have opened contract talks with 24-year-old German forward Kevin Schade in an effort to deter interest from Arsenal and secure his long-term future at the club.
Key Facts
- Federico Chiesa is expected to be assessed for the Bournemouth match on 24 January following his recent muscle injury
- Jadon Sancho is in talks with at least two unnamed Premier League clubs over a potential transfer
- Manchester United have completed the signing of Liverpool's 16-year-old midfielder Isaac Konde
- Liverpool and Manchester United are both competing to sign Wolverhampton's 18-year-old winger Matheus Mane
- AC Milan are preparing a loan move for Real Madrid's 20-year-old forward Endrick
