Report: Liverpool winger set for exit as Serie A club line up replacement | OneFootball

Atalanta’s Chiesa Interest Hinges on Lookman Sale

Inter’s pursuit of Lookman triggers Atalanta plan

Atalanta’s transfer window strategy appears to be falling neatly into place, with the Bergamo-based club setting the wheels in motion to bring in Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa – but only after Ademola Lookman’s future is resolved. As reported by Alfredo Pedullà for Football Italia, Atalanta have made it clear they will not lower their €50 million asking price for the Nigerian forward, who is currently attracting strong interest from Inter.

Inter have already lodged an offer of €40 million, but the Serie A giants are fully aware that they must get closer to the €50m valuation if they want to bring the African Ballon d’Or winner to San Siro. Napoli, once rumoured to be in the running, have not shown serious intent in recent weeks, leaving Inter in pole position.

“Atalanta are preparing to replace Lookman, but will only sell the Nigerian on their condition.”

Photo: IMAGO

Chiesa omission fuels speculation

Meanwhile, Chiesa’s absence from Liverpool’s pre-season tour of East Asia has only heightened rumours of a potential departure. Having made just 14 appearances in his debut season for the Reds, in which he scored twice and added two assists, the 27-year-old Italian winger has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter under Arne Slot.

Sources close to Atalanta “further confirm Atalanta’s interest in Chiesa, who is likely to move to Bergamo once Lookman leaves.” That sentiment echoes Pedullà’s earlier reporting from Monday, which suggested the club had already made initial movements for the ex-Juventus star.

Lookman key to Atalanta’s wider transfer puzzle

The idea is clear: Atalanta won’t sanction the signing of Chiesa unless they can first offload Lookman – and for their full valuation. It’s a domino effect where Inter’s move for the Nigerian will open the door for Chiesa’s return to Serie A.

“Inter are the only Serie A club in the running for the latest African Ballon d’Or winner,” Pedullà notes, and that gives Atalanta strong leverage in negotiations. They’ve already lined up Chiesa as the ideal replacement – an experienced international with proven top-level pedigree who could flourish with consistent minutes.

Liverpool future in doubt for Chiesa

Whether Chiesa’s move to Anfield was ill-timed or simply didn’t fit the tactical structure, there’s little doubt now that his future lies away from Merseyside. And with Atalanta’s structured approach to squad building, the Italian winger could find himself central to their plans – assuming Inter play their part.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, Chiesa’s potential departure so soon after his arrival would prompt mixed feelings. On one hand, there was significant optimism when the Italian joined the Reds, given his explosive performances for Italy at Euro 2020 and his previous exploits at Juventus. However, his first season at Anfield underwhelmed, and with just 14 appearances across all competitions – alongside a modest return of two goals and two assists – his impact has been limited.

The omission from the pre-season tour suggests the writing may already be on the wall. Under Arne Slot, Liverpool seem to be leaning towards younger, more dynamic wide players, and Chiesa – although immensely talented – may not have shown enough to cement a role in that system.

What’s also important to consider is that Liverpool rarely hold onto players who aren’t integral to the first-team setup. If Atalanta are willing to move quickly and meet whatever valuation Liverpool attach to Chiesa, the Reds may see this as a smart piece of business that could free up squad space and wages for more pressing needs – perhaps a defensive midfielder or a centre-back.

From a fan’s point of view, it’s disappointing to see a marquee signing not reach his potential at Anfield. But equally, there’s a degree of understanding that Chiesa needs regular football, and with Atalanta offering that, it could be a good move for all parties involved.