Federico Chiesa’s struggles at Liverpool have reignited speculation about a possible return to Juventus, with the Italian winger making clear he would welcome the chance to write a different ending to his story in Turin — just as new chief executive Giovanni Carnevali pursues a transfer strategy built increasingly around Italian talent.
Chiesa’s Difficult Season at Anfield
Chiesa’s first year in the Premier League has been a struggle. Having joined Liverpool in a discounted deal, the Italy international managed fewer than 500 minutes across all competitions and started just a single league fixture — a largely inconsequential match against Brighton after the title had already been secured. His failure to take part in last summer’s pre-season, arriving late and unprepared, left him unable to settle into Arne Slot’s system or build the physical foundation needed to compete for a regular place.
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Chiesa explained that he is now working daily on a personalised programme to be ready for Liverpool’s return to pre-season training on 8 July — a fresh opportunity to prove himself.
“Why Not?” — Chiesa’s Message to Juventus
Despite his focus on Liverpool, Chiesa did not hold back when discussing his feelings for his former club. He expressed continued affection for Juventus and did not rule out an eventual return, recalling candidly how his Juventus career ended under Thiago Motta — who told him directly that he did not fit into his plans and should look for a new club elsewhere.
With his sights firmly set on a recall to the Italy squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Chiesa’s openness to a return to Serie A — and specifically to Juventus — adds an intriguing subplot to the club’s summer plans. According to Fabrizio Romano, Chiesa is already on the radar of Juventus’s hierarchy, who have made contact with the player. For Spalletti, his offensive versatility and proven pedigree at the highest level could make him an appealing, low-risk option to strengthen the final third.
The Wider Italian Push: Frattesi, Ruggeri and Ndour
Chiesa’s situation forms part of a broader shift in transfer strategy under Carnevali, who is understood to be prioritising Italian talent as Juventus look to rebuild. Davide Frattesi remains a genuine target as his Inter exit edges closer, while interest in Atletico Madrid’s Matteo Ruggeri — also linked with Fiorentina — continues to develop.
A further name to emerge is Cher Ndour of Fiorentina, alongside other intriguing possibilities further down the list: Brentford’s Michael Kayode, the former Fiorentina full-back, and Catanzaro’s highly rated young attacking midfielder Mattia Liberali, whose €6 million release clause includes a 50% sell-on owed to AC Milan.
A Window of Genuine Possibility
Between Chiesa’s emotional pull, Carnevali’s Italian football network, and Spalletti’s clear backing from ownership, Juventus’s summer is taking on an increasingly distinctive character — one rooted firmly in Serie A relationships and proven domestic talent. Whether Chiesa’s open door leads anywhere remains to be seen, but for a player desperate for a fresh start and a club in the midst of genuine transformation, the timing could hardly be more intriguing.
