Report: AC Milan Interested in Liverpool Forward in January Deal | OneFootball

Liverpool Contemplates Federico Chiesa Swap Deal with AC Milan

Liverpool’s move for Federico Chiesa seemed like a coup when the Italian attacker signed from Juventus in the summer. However, his stint in Merseyside has been hindered by fitness concerns, leaving fans questioning his future at the club. According to Milan Live, AC Milan are now exploring a January swap deal, with the Reds reportedly considering an exchange for Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders.

Chiesa joined Liverpool in a £10 million deal with add-ons, and he arrived with a stellar reputation built over 131 appearances for Juventus, amassing 32 goals and 23 assists. Yet his impact has been minimal, making only one appearance so far in a Champions League clash against AC Milan, where he played just 65 minutes. Since then, Chiesa has been sidelined, not even making the bench in recent matches.

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Interest from AC Milan

Reports from Milan Live suggest that AC Milan, managed by Paulo Fonseca, may seek to bring Chiesa back to Serie A in January. The Italian outlet states, “A transfer is not excluded at the moment, starting from the January market. If Chiesa is unable to find his dimension, it is likely that he could ask to leave, unless Liverpool shows him the door.”

AC Milan’s pursuit of Chiesa comes amid his ongoing struggles at Anfield. For Liverpool, who are competing on multiple fronts under new manager Arne Slot, a versatile, fully fit player in midfield could be more beneficial than an injury-prone forward.

Potential Swap Deal: Chiesa for Reijnders

Liverpool’s current midfield has been solid, but with injuries and fixture congestion, the addition of a creative and hardworking midfielder like Reijnders could enhance squad depth. “In January, there could be an acceleration even if this means having to make a sacrifice.” Reijnders has proven himself as a top player in Milan’s midfield, making him an attractive prospect for Liverpool’s system under Slot.

Photo: IMAGO

Moreover, Slot has apparently made his priorities clear to Liverpool’s management, highlighting midfield as a key area for reinforcements. A swap involving Chiesa could allow Liverpool to bolster their midfield without a substantial cash outlay.

Chiesa’s Uncertain Future at Liverpool

Chiesa’s potential return to Serie A isn’t surprising. While his ability to contribute to Liverpool’s frontline excited fans initially, his inability to find consistent form or fitness has cast doubt on his role at Anfield. With Milan reportedly “winking” at the former Juventus player, there is a real possibility that Chiesa’s Liverpool chapter could be short-lived.

Photo: IMAGO

With Milan’s interest building and Liverpool possibly open to offers, January might see a swap deal that could be mutually beneficial. Liverpool would gain a proven midfield talent, while Chiesa could regain stability and playing time in a familiar league.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Chiesa’s departure would be a disappointment, given the excitement that surrounded his arrival. Many Liverpool supporters hoped he’d add a dynamic edge to the attack, similar to his performances with Italy and Juventus. His lone appearance was tantalising but ultimately unfulfilling, leaving fans wondering what could have been.

The fact that Liverpool may use Chiesa as a bargaining chip so soon after his arrival feels like a rushed decision. Fans might question why the club didn’t do more to ensure his fitness or adapt its approach to accommodate him. There’s also frustration in potentially swapping a high-profile forward for a midfielder. While Liverpool’s midfield could indeed use reinforcements, trading a talent like Chiesa, who’s barely had a chance to show his worth, could be seen as short-sighted.

Yet, given his fitness struggles and Liverpool’s immediate needs, the swap might make practical sense. Fans, though, would have wanted a longer-term vision for Chiesa—a player who seemed perfect for the Anfield attack. If he does leave, it’s likely many will feel his Liverpool career ended before it truly began.