Sport

Liverpool's Shocking Transfer Decisions: Why Federico Chiesa Stays Amid Besiktas Interest

2025-09-10

Author: Sarah

Federico Chiesa, the talented Italian forward, has caught the eye of Turkish club Besiktas, but Liverpool are determined not to part ways with him.

The buzz around Chiesa's exclusion from Liverpool’s Champions League squad has left many supporters questioning the decision. Some fans feel the 27-year-old could be a crucial asset as the team embarks on a challenging European campaign.

After the summer reshuffle that saw Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez exit, it was expected that Chiesa would step into a more prominent role at Anfield, especially after a limited run in his debut season.

Chiesa’s initial performances have shown promise, notably in a recent match against Bournemouth, where he delivered a spectacular volley to help secure a 4-2 victory.

However, his omission from the squad has raised eyebrows, suggesting that head coach Arne Slot remains unsure about Chiesa's contributions.

This uncertainty may have prompted Besiktas to initiate talks with Liverpool, hoping to strike a deal before their transfer window shuts on September 12.

Had Liverpool successfully signed Marc Guehi on deadline day, Chiesa might have been eligible to participate in the Champions League. Instead, the failed transfer saw Rio Ngumoha claim the last homegrown spot in the squad, leaving Chiesa on the outside looking in.

Under UEFA’s rules, clubs can include a maximum of 25 players in their main squad, with specific spots reserved for homegrown talents. With Liverpool having 18 non-homegrown members, Chiesa found himself as the furthest down the pecking order.

To compensate for squad depth, Liverpool brought in Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike this summer alongside familiar faces like Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah, which further restricted Chiesa’s chances.

Despite the current situation, Liverpool is not inclined to let him go, as Slot and the coaching staff recognize the invaluable experience Chiesa brings—vital for a team vying for success across multiple competitions this season.

Chiesa aims to regain his form from 2021, when he was pivotal in Italy's European Championship victory. Staying at Liverpool rather than being loaned to Turkey gives him the platform to prove his worth once again.

Besiktas will likely need to redirect their efforts elsewhere, as Liverpool stands firm on keeping Chiesa for the demanding months ahead.