Arne Slot drops Federico Chiesa transfer hint as club ‘intensify’ talks to sign him immediately after Liverpool goal

Liverpool’s opening Premier League clash against Bournemouth delivered everything — goals, drama, controversy, and even a transfer twist involving Federico Chiesa. The Italian winger, who has been heavily linked with a move away from Anfield, came off the bench and made the headlines once again, leaving manager Arne Slot facing questions about his future.

The Reds eventually secured a thrilling 4-2 victory at Anfield, but the match wasn’t without tension. Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, who sadly faced racist abuse during and after the game, nearly turned the contest on its head after pulling one goal back before finding an equaliser. Just when it seemed Liverpool were losing control, Chiesa stepped forward with the decisive moment.

Having replaced Florian Wirtz late in the game, Chiesa took just minutes to stamp his mark. His goal two minutes from time restored Liverpool’s lead, sparking wild celebrations inside the stadium. Yet, it wasn’t just the strike that caught attention. Fans were quick to analyze his celebration, seeing it as more than just joy — perhaps even a subtle message about his commitment to the club.

Despite the goal, uncertainty continues to swirl around Chiesa’s future. Reports from Italy claim that AC Milan are intensifying talks to lure him back to Serie A before the transfer window closes. According to Football Italia, Milan have already made contact with his representatives, with head coach Massimiliano Allegri particularly keen on a reunion after previously managing him at Juventus.

Chiesa’s name has remained at the centre of the transfer rumour mill all summer. The 27-year-old has been repeatedly linked with a return to his homeland, with Milan viewed as the most serious contender. For Allegri, signing Chiesa would bring experience, flair, and familiarity — qualities he values as he looks to rebuild his Milan squad into a title-challenging force.

Yet Arne Slot seemed calm and composed when addressing the situation after the match. He praised Chiesa not only for his impact against Bournemouth but also for his determination to fight for a place in the squad despite missing chunks of last season through injuries. The Dutch manager hinted that, for now, Chiesa remains firmly part of his plans.

“As long as he is here, it is definitely at Liverpool, and I have no reason to believe it is going to change,” Slot told reporters. “He had a hard time last season getting his fitness ready, and then he missed the Asian tour. But when I needed him, he delivered — and that is always positive for your future at the club.”

Slot also shed light on his substitution choices, noting that several players still lacked full match sharpness, including Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley. He insisted that Chiesa’s introduction wasn’t just tactical, but necessary. “At 2-2 you need a number nine. I brought him in and he delivered,” Slot said, a statement that underscored the importance of the Italian in decisive moments.

The manager went further, reflecting on the bond between Chiesa and the supporters. He noted how often the fans sang for him last season, even during his struggles. “It is very nice for him to give them something in return,” he admitted. “I can’t tell you why they love him so much, maybe because he has a great history, maybe because he chose to leave Italy for England, which doesn’t happen often. Whatever the reason, he clearly has a special place here.”

For Liverpool supporters, the episode embodies football’s unpredictability. A player supposedly on the verge of departure can still be the hero in a season opener. For Chiesa, the goal was not only crucial for the result but also a personal statement, proving that despite the constant speculation, his quality remains undeniable.

As the transfer window ticks down, speculation will only intensify. AC Milan may continue pushing, Allegri may continue calling, and agents may continue negotiating. But for now, at least, Federico Chiesa remains a Liverpool player — one capable of deciding games and igniting debates about his future with every kick of the ball.