Juventus star Federico Chiesa 'inclined' to join Liverpool in potential cut-price deal

Juventus star Federico Chiesa is now 'more inclined' to join Liverpool in a potential cut-price deal, it has been reported.

The Italian winger signed for Juve in 2020, initially on loan before the deal was made permanent in 2022.

He scored 14 goals in all competitions during his first campaign with the Old Lady, but suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during his second season which ruled him out for nearly 10 months.

It took the Italian time to find top form once again, but local outlet Il Bianconero claim he has returned to pre-season in a 'significantly improved' condition.

A number of teams have been linked with making a bid for the winger's services - but it is reported that Liverpool are one of the clubs leading the race to sign him.

Chiesa 'inclined' to complete Liverpool move

Speaking to Italian station TV Play (via Sport Witness), journalist Marco Guidi has claimed that Liverpool, Newcastle and Bayern Munich are among the clubs interested in signing Chiesa.

He adds, however, that the 25-year-old would prefer to sign for a 'classic top club, such as Liverpool or Bayern Munich'.

That claim would appear to put the Reds at the forefront of the race to secure Chiesa's signature - and they may be able to sign him for a cheaper fee than first thought.

Various reports had claimed that Juventus had placed a £51 million asking price on the Italian's head this summer.

But Calciomercatoweb report that Juve now want a fee of £35.6 million from interested clubs, which would place Chiesa's valuation as similar to that of Alexis Mac Allister, who signed for Liverpool at the beginning of the transfer window.

Chiesa was described as 'fantastic' by Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand in 2021, and could be showcasing his pace, skill and goalscoring abilities at Anfield next season if a deal can be completed.