Federico Chiesa has turned down a move to Fenerbahce despite interest from José Mourinho and is hoping to return to Serie A. However, his high wages are proving to be a major obstacle to making that happen.
Chiesa is expected to leave Liverpool this summer after a disappointing season at Anfield. New manager Arne Slot left the Italian winger out of the club’s pre-season tour, a clear signal that he’s no longer in Liverpool’s plans. According to Calciomercato, Mourinho’s Fenerbahce expressed strong interest, but Chiesa rejected the move and has made it clear he wants to head back to Italy.
Chiesa joined Liverpool from Juventus for around €15 million but struggled to make an impact. He made just 14 appearances across all competitions, scoring only twice in 466 minutes of football.
A combination of injuries, limited playing time, and Liverpool’s crowded attacking options left him on the fringes. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Chiesa is looking for regular minutes — and a return to Serie A is his priority. But his €7 million net salary is a big stumbling block. Clubs like AC Milan, Napoli, Atalanta, and Roma have all shown interest, but none are currently in a position to match those wage demands.
The 27-year-old has faced injury setbacks since suffering a serious ACL tear in 2022 and has continued to struggle with muscle problems. Even so, when fully fit, he remains a dynamic and dangerous winger — something that Serie A clubs still value. A move back to Italy could give him the fresh start he needs, and potentially reunite him with familiar coaches like Massimiliano Allegri or Antonio Conte.
Liverpool are open to selling him outright and could accept a lower fee than the €15 million they originally paid. Italian clubs are keeping close tabs, but any deal will likely depend on Chiesa being willing to take a pay cut. Milan’s interest hinges on potential player sales, while Napoli are assessing him as a possible replacement for Dan Ndoye.
