Chiesa offered Liverpool escape route after Arne Slot’s ‘difficult’ admission

Federico Chiesa could return to Italy on loan in January, with Inter Milan keen to sign the winger.

The Italy international, 27, became Arne Slot's first signing in the summer after joining Liverpool in a bargain deal from Juventus, who were prepared to offload the player as he was in the final year of his contract.

But Chiesa has had a frustrating start to life at Anfield after being captured by Slot. So far he has made just one appearance in the Premier League, where he has also missed the last FIVE matchday squads as he tried to build up his fitness.

However, he could be given the opportunity to regain his best form in familiar surroundings at Inter, who would be open to a six-month loan deal.

This is according to a new report from Tuttosport, which reveals that the reigning Italian champions would welcome the opportunity to strengthen their squad with Chiesa's signature.

The Euro 2020 winner has also attracted admiring looks from AC Milan and AS Roma, despite a lack of game time for Liverpool. While it is unclear whether either are as viable an option as Inter, it is said that Liverpool would be willing to pay a portion of Chiesa's wages should he wish to return to Serie A.

While this isn't the first time Chiesa has been linked with a return to Italy in recent weeks, Slot's previous comments about the Italian star would certainly indicate he has a long-term future at Anfield.

The Dutchman admitted he felt 'sorry' for Chiesa over the lack of opportunities, implying this was solely down to fitness issues. “With Federico it's a little simpler; although it is more difficult, but it is a little easier to explain,” Slot explained last month.

“He missed a complete pre-season, I've said that many times, and went to a league where the intensity might even be higher than in the Italian league. We just faced the two Italian teams, so I can say this now.

“That makes it difficult for him to make the step to the intensity level that the rest of the team is currently at.

“That's not so much to do with the Italian league or the Premier League, it's more to do with missing a complete pre-season and that's so difficult for any player – when the games are there all the time – to build them up. to the level we are at.

“It's difficult to say, but it is a big disappointment for him that he is constantly in and out of training. I feel sorry for him.”