Liverpool are ready to approve Federico Chiesa’s transfer, but Arne Slot encounters two major challenges.

Liverpool are reportedly ready to approve Federico Chiesa’s transfer, but two significant obstacles are delaying the deal. Chiesa, who joined Liverpool from Juventus for £12.5 million last summer, has struggled to make an impact, featuring in just four games across all competitions, including a single Premier League appearance.

The 27-year-old winger has been linked with a return to Italy, and speculation intensified following a cryptic social media post. According to Foot Mercato, Liverpool are close to finalizing a six-month loan deal with Napoli, with talks ongoing between the clubs and Chiesa’s agent, Fali Ramadani.

However, two key issues are hindering the January move. First, Chiesa’s wages present a challenge, as Napoli may require Liverpool to subsidize even half of his salary. Second, Napoli want to include an option to make the loan permanent, a condition Liverpool are reportedly hesitant to accept.

Chiesa has found limited opportunities under Arne Slot, with his most recent appearance coming as a substitute in Liverpool’s 2-1 Carabao Cup victory over Southampton. Slot acknowledged the difficulties in helping Chiesa regain sharpness midseason, particularly given the competition for places in Liverpool’s attack, which includes stars like Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Darwin Núñez.

Despite some promising moments in his limited outings, Slot emphasized the challenge of reaching top form and competing with Liverpool’s established fo

rwards.