Man Utd join race for world-class Arsenal, Liverpool attacking target primed for Premier League move
Manchester United have reportedly joined the race for Juventus winger Federico Chiesa, amid growing interest from Arsenal and Liverpool.
The 25-year-old is arguably one of the best attackers in Europe on his day, but has struggled with injury problems this season.
Juventus will not let their star man go easily, but due to their ongoing off-field issues, may be forced to sell him at the end of the current campaign.
The Italy international has been one of the Serie A’s shining stars over the past few years, spending two years on loan at the Old Lady from Fiorentina, before his move was made permanent last summer.
In 69 appearances for Juve overall, Chiesa has scored 19 goals and made 16 assists, but as mentioned – his progress has been hampered by injury.
He missed the Italian giant’s first 12 matches this season but has featured in all five of their competitive matches since the World Cup break – scoring twice so far.
In particular, the winger was subject to heavy interest after an eye-catching Euro 2020, where Chiesa was a key player as Italy won the competition, netting two important goals including one against Spain in the semi-final.
Although Chiesa is under contract at Juve until 2025, his future at the club appears to be uncertain due to their ongoing off-field issues.
The Italian giants have recently been deducted 15 points in Serie A due to alleged false accounting and financial irregularities and as a result, Chiesa may well be heading to the Premier League at the end of the season.
United in the race for Chiesa but mega-sum may be required
According to CalcioMercatoWeb, Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has put Chiesa at the top of his transfer shortlist.
As per the report, the Red Devils, who have signed Wout Weghorst and Jack Butland on loan this month, are weighing up whether or not to move for the Italian next summer.
They also suggest that Juventus would be looking for bids in the region of €100m (£88m) for Chiesa.
While this is a huge sum, if he can rediscover his form from the Euros, Chiesa arguably has the ability to make United serial title contenders once again, but Arsenal and Liverpool are also looking to secure his signature.
Chisea is quick, direct and can score from pretty much anywhere. He is also versatile, with the ability to play on either flank or even as a central striker on occasion, so he could provide cover in a number of positions for United.
Ten Hag is also looking to make other improvements to his squad, too. Frenkie de Jong has been heavily linked with a switch to Old Trafford since last summer and the Dutch coach is reportedly very keen on reigniting their interest.
United are also reportedly looking to sign experienced Real Betis forward Borja Iglesias to provide competition for Weghorst, so their January business may not be done just yet.
What is for sure though, is that if they can get a deal for Chiesa done next summer, he could prove to be a monumental signing for Ten Hag.
