Federico Chiesa rejects Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce and prioritises Serie A return but must drop salary demands to escape Liverpool misery

Chiesa is set to leave Liverpool this summer after a disappointing season at Anfield. Arne Slot excluded the Italian winger from the club’s pre-season tour, confirming he’s no longer in the Reds’ plans. According to Calciomercato, Mourinho’s Fenerbahce showed interest, but Chiesa has rejected the move and is prioritising a return to Serie A.

Chiesa, who joined from Juventus for around €15 million (£13m/$17m), made just 14 appearances, scoring twice in 466 minutes. Moreover, a mix of injuries, limited game time, and an established attacking hierarchy at Liverpool saw him drop down the pecking order. With the 2026 World Cup cycle on the horizon, he wants regular football. Serie A is his preferred destination, but his €7m net salary poses a challenge. Interested clubs like Milan, Napoli, Atalanta and Roma are unlikely to meet those wage demands.

The 27-year-old suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury in 2022 and has since dealt with various muscular issues, limiting his consistency. Despite that, when fit, he’s proven himself to be a game-changer. A return to Italy would mark a fresh start, potentially reuniting him with coaches like Massimiliano Allegri or Antonio Conte.

The Reds are open to selling the Italian winger permanently and could accept less than the €15m they initially paid. Clubs in Italy remain on standby, but a deal depends heavily on the player reducing his salary. Milan’s interest is tied to outgoing transfers, while Napoli seek a replacement for Dan Ndoye.