Federico Chiesa to Liverpool: An Opportunistic Move That Misses the Mark?

The world of football transfers is a landscape defined by speculation, last-minute surprises, and strategic gambles. With Liverpool currently in the midst of a vital transfer window, the latest whispers around Federico Chiesa are undeniably intriguing. After all, here’s a player capable of slotting into multiple positions across the forward line, and with Juventus looking for a reasonable £12-15 million fee, this could seem like a low-risk, high-reward deal. However, scratch beneath the surface, and it’s hard to argue that Chiesa’s arrival solves the core issues Liverpool have faced this summer. Here’s why.

Chiesa Brings Versatility but No Answers to Key Problems

Who’d have thought Romano would beat Joyce and others, but here we are. Federico Chiesa is a player who oozes flair, versatility, and unpredictability. Whether deployed as a right winger, left forward, or even through the middle, his dynamism can add depth and flexibility to Liverpool’s attacking options. As the rumour mill suggests, he’s given his full availability to join the Reds. Understandably, there’s excitement from fans about what a player of his calibre could bring to Anfield.

Last season, despite Juventus’ inconsistencies and tactical challenges, Chiesa managed to score 10 goals across all competitions. In a team that often struggled to click offensively, his output is a testament to his ability to create something out of nothing. These are the qualities any top team would desire—especially one like Liverpool that might need an alternative to Mohamed Salah or a fresh injection of pace when Plan A fails.

But while adding Chiesa offers squad depth and some exciting possibilities, it doesn’t address the glaring gaps in Arne Slot’s current squad. This isn’t the solution Liverpool fans were clamouring for when the transfer window opened.

Defensive Issues and Midfield Reinforcements Still Needed

The truth is, as electrifying as Chiesa can be, Liverpool’s priorities this window were clear: reinforce the holding midfield role and secure a left-sided defender. The Reds have already seen a fair few departures, and whilst there are even more expected departures, there remains a hole where a dominant number six should be. The club’s ongoing search for that elusive defensive midfielder, capable of dictating play and shielding the backline, has been frustratingly non-existent since the Zubimendi failure.

Similarly, the left side of Liverpool’s defence is an area that demands attention. Andy Robertson needs competition as a minimum and rotation options that match the high standards the club sets. Liverpool’s new style requires a player who can play both left and centre back, with positional awareness and recovery speed in this position—qualities that haven’t consistently been on display. Adding Chiesa doesn’t directly strengthen either of these areas. It’s a signing that may end up looking opportunistic rather than a solution—more of an ’I get it, but I wanted other things’ look you sometimes see at Christmas.

Three Days for Liverpool to Salvage Their Window

With only days remaining in the window, the pressure is on to secure those essential pieces. While the Chiesa deal might be a shrewd one in isolation, it leaves a sour taste if it comes at the expense of failing to address the two primary areas of concern. That wouldn’t be his fault in anyway and it’s still understandable when there’s excitement if this happens.

Liverpool’s season could hinge on these next few days. If they manage to bring in a robust number six or a reliable left-back alongside Chiesa, this could be considered a masterclass in balancing creativity with pragmatic reinforcement. However, should they miss out on these key targets, there’s a genuine risk that the Chiesa move—no matter how inexpensive or opportunistic—will be seen as a missed opportunity to get the balance right.

A Smart Deal in a Flawed Window?

The potential addition of Federico Chiesa would bring some upside: depth, goals, and flexibility. For around £12-15 million, it’s hard to see it as anything but a decent bargain in today’s inflated market. However, that alone isn’t enough. For a club with aspirations to challenge across all fronts, Liverpool’s failure to address their most pressing needs in this window would cast a shadow over what might otherwise be seen as a clever piece of business.

So, while Chiesa’s arrival could be a coup for Slot’s side, it doesn’t paper over the cracks. These next few days could be decisive in determining whether this window is remembered as a story of opportunistic brilliance—or a glaring miscalculation.