Why Federico Chiesa would be a smart signing for Liverpool

Back in June, Italian outlet Tuttomercato (h/t Express) claimed that Fiorentina winger Federico Chiesa was on the shortlist of Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool were looking for reinforcements.

Chiesa then decided to stay in Italy for the following season and hence, a deal did not take place. But now it is confirmed that Liverpool are seriously considering a swoop for the young talent in January, according to La Nazione (h/t LiverpoolEcho).

After a successful Champions League campaign last year, Klopp’s men are undisputed in the Premier League so far. After 14 games, the Reds are on top of the table, leaving second-placed Leicester City 8 points behind them.

Liverpool are a team who, in spite of having quality players for completing a starting line-up, have solid back-up on the bench. But if there is one area to be strengthened, it would be the right-wing position, where Mohamed Salah plays the lead role.

Speaking of right-wing, Fiorentina’s young winger Federico Chiesa would be a good choice for the Reds in order to add to their already powerful attack.

The Italian came through the ranks at La Viola and made his first-team debut in 2016. Since then, he has appeared 126 times for Fiorentina and has a wealth of experience at a higher level.

The 22-year-old is known for his bursting pace and takes on the opponents with ease, thus making the right-wing spot his own under Vincenzo Montella this season. In 12 Serie A games, he has registered 2 goals and provided 4 assists so far.

The highly-rated winger’s versatility could be his major attribute as he can play anywhere along the frontline. He has also adapted well to be deployed as an attacking midfielder for the Purples.

With so much quality within, Chiesa would easily be named in Klopp’s squad to add more depth to their attacking ranks. Xherdan Shaqiri has been inconsistent due to a series of injuries. And it is most likely that the Swiss forward may not be favoured by Klopp any time soon.

Chiesa is a huge talent and in his younger days, he would be the best option to play second fiddle to Salah, who has also been troubled by injuries of late.

In Serie A this season, Chiesa averages 4.3 shots, 0.8 tackles and 1.9 dribbles per game. He has also averaged a pass success rate of 77.3% in the league, according to Whoscored.

To put things into perspective, Chiesa may not be the first choice but he can see his chances coming at regular intervals. A taste of Premier League football would help him develop into a big-game player and would help him in adding to his 17 international caps.

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Verdict

A January move for Chiesa would be a boost for Klopp, whose players have been putting in the hard work. Chiesa’s presence can allow the manager to rotate his squad without any doubts.

Under the German, who is known for developing raw talents into finished articles, Chiesa can flourish at Liverpool. Therefore, the Reds must make no delay in securing his services.