Liverpool have reportedly begun discussions with Juventus about acquiring Federico Chiesa at a reduced price. The forward, who can play both as a winger and a central attacker, is available for transfer after being dropped by Juventus’ new manager, Thiago Motta. Chiesa’s move to Juventus four years ago was highly anticipated, but he has scored only 32 goals in 131 appearances during his tenure. Juventus, having not won a Serie A title since his arrival, have decided to sell him for £12.5 million—a significant decrease from the £45 million they paid Fiorentina for him.

Chelsea has shown interest in Chiesa as a backup plan if their pursuit of Napoli’s Victor Osimhen falls through. However, Liverpool is currently in the lead to secure his services, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that Chiesa is keen on the move.

Despite being in charge at Anfield for 86 days, Arne Slot has yet to sign a new player, although Valencia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili is expected to join Liverpool for £25 million this week, with Mamardashvili remaining at Valencia until 2025. Chiesa could become Slot’s first signing. Liverpool already have five forwards—Mo Salah, Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota, Cody Gakpo, and Luis Diaz—but their midfield is considered thin after their failed attempt to sign Spain’s Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. It seems Slot is aiming to bolster his attacking options, and Liverpool will seek to finalize the deal before the transfer deadline on Friday.