Liverpool stance on Federico Chiesa after Besiktas links
Chiesa’s Liverpool role amid speculation
Liverpool have no intention of sanctioning an exit for Federico Chiesa despite fresh links with Besiktas ahead of the Turkish transfer deadline. Reports suggested exploratory talks had taken place, but the club remain committed to keeping the Italian forward. Credit is due to the Liverpool Echo, who highlighted how Turkish clubs can still complete signings until 12 September, days after the Premier League window closed.
Chiesa has been the subject of speculation throughout the summer. Napoli and Atalanta were both credited with interest, while his absence from the pre-season tour of Hong Kong and Japan raised further questions about his future. That injury setback is behind him now, and he has already made an impact in the new campaign, scoring a late goal in the 4-2 victory over Bournemouth on the opening weekend.
Champions League squad decision
The Italian’s omission from the 23-man Champions League squad fuelled the uncertainty. The decision, however, was dictated more by logistics than form. The club were unable to finalise a move for Marc Guehi on deadline day and therefore needed to prioritise home-grown quota spots. That meant Rio Ngumoha, the highly rated teenager, was promoted, leaving Chiesa out of the European group stage plans.
Despite that disappointment, Liverpool see value in his presence domestically. His experience is regarded as vital, especially during a transitional phase for the frontline.
Frontline undergoing transition
With Alexander Isak arriving for £125m and Hugo Ekitike joining him, plus Ngumoha’s rise into the senior ranks, there is competition for places under Arne Slot. The departures of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez to Bayern Munich and Al Hilal respectively left a void. Chiesa, at 27, offers maturity and quality in attack that Liverpool will lean on as they reshape their identity in the final third.
Chiesa’s own words
Chiesa himself appeared relaxed about his future earlier this summer. In June, he reflected: “The year is over. But it’s an experience I would do again. Soon I will sit down at the table with the club, Fali (Ramadani, agent) and my family to find the best solution. I wouldn’t mind staying in Liverpool at all.”
His £12m move from Juventus last summer was considered opportunistic business, and with his work rate and adaptability, he remains a key squad member even without Champions League football.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
The noise around Chiesa feels exaggerated. Fans will rightly question why he was omitted from the Champions League squad, but the reality is that the club had to make a difficult call on home-grown quota. That decision says more about regulations than about Chiesa’s standing at Liverpool.
Many fans appreciate the value he brings. He is a proven international with the versatility to play across the frontline. In a side bedding in Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike and Rio Ngumoha, that kind of experience is crucial. The Champions League squad list might sting, but Chiesa can still prove decisive in the Premier League, domestic cups, and as cover for injuries.
There is also reassurance in hearing Chiesa publicly state: “I wouldn’t mind staying in Liverpool at all.” It reflects a player who is committed, rather than agitating for a move. Supporters often worry when names like Besiktas are linked, but this feels like one rumour that will fade quickly.
Looking ahead, his role may well be as an impact substitute or rotational starter, but in a season of transition, that might be exactly what Liverpool need. For many fans, keeping Chiesa represents stability at a time when the squad is being reshaped.
