Arsenal are reportedly considering a move for winger Federico Chiesa, who has recently been transfer-listed by Juventus.
Chiesa not in Motta’s plans
The 26-year-old will reportedly be available for €25-30 million, and the Bianconeri are keen to sell him soon. Newly appointed Juventus manager Thiago Motta told the Italian that he was not in his plans and should find a new club before the window closes.
A youth product of Fiorentina, Chiesa made his senior debut for the Florence club in 2016. The winger was considered an enormous talent and made 153 senior appearances for Fiorentina, scoring 34 goals.
Juventus signed him in 2020 for an initial two-year loan deal with an obligation to buy, depending on whether Chiesa met certain conditions. The winger has enjoyed a reasonably successful stint at Turin, contributing 38 goals and assists in 98 league games for Juventus. Chiesa was additionally included in the Serie A team of the year for the 2020-21 season.
Chiesa has impressed on the international stage for Italy. He was part of the EURO 2021 winning squad and was included in the team of the tournament. The 26-year-old has made 53 appearances for the Azzurri.
Arsenal more pro-active in market lately
The Gunners have been more proactive in the transfer market in the last few weeks. Several players who were not in Mikel Arteta’s plan have departed the club, and Arsenal have announced the arrival of defender Riccardo Calafiori. The North London side are also progressing on a deal to sign Euros winner Mikel Merino.
Having reinforced their defense and closing in on Merino for the midfield, Arsenal will be keen to bolster their attack now. A world-class striker has been on Arteta’s wishlist, but the Gunners will likely continue with Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz as their forward options. A few wingers have been considered, with Chiesa being the latest name to be linked with a move to the Emirates stadium.
Chiesa would add quality across the frontline and provide much-needed depth in the wing positions. The Italian has the quality to be a starter and would provide healthy competition to Gabriel Martinelli while additionally filling in for Bukayo Saka on the right wing when needed. If Arsenal can negotiate a reasonable price for the 26-year-old, signing Chiesa would be a good move as the Gunners complete on multiple fronts this season.
