Arsenal and Chelsea set to battle it out for €40m-€45m rated star, was Italy's standout performer at Euro 2020: Reports
Arsenal and Chelsea have joined Newcastle United in the race to sign Juventus' Italian winger Federico Chiesa, who could be one to watch at Euro 2024. The flashy attacker could be headed for the Allianz Stadium exit with the Old Lady open to a sale abroad.
TuttoJuve.com reports that Chiesa's future at Juve is uncertain because of his contract situation. He has a year left on his current deal, but talks over an extension have seemingly failed to result in a positive outcome.
Chiesa, 26, could be key for Italy at Euro 2024. He managed 10 goals and three assists in 37 games across competitions at club level last season. He was crucial for Gli Azzurri at Euro 2020, helping them win the trophy with two goals in seven games.
Arsenal and Chelsea are monitoring his situation as they look to bolster their attacks this summer. Newcastle also keeps tabs on Chiesa, who could be available for at least €40-€45 million.
Juve met with Chiesa's father, Enrico, to discuss the forward's future. He's pushing for a one-year extension to relieve the pressure on the Serie A giants. The Old Lady are waiting for Thiago Motta to officially arrive as coach to make a decision, per Gazzetta dello Sport.
Arsenal and Chelsea could do with more creativity amid questionable seasons for several of their attackers. Gabriel Martinelli is somewhat unimpressed for the Gunners, while Mykhailo Mudryk and Raheem Sterling continue to struggle at Stamford Bridge.
"Confirming his talent" - Antonio Di Natale already told Arsenal and Chelsea what they'd get from Federico Chiesa
Chiesa joined Juve from Fiorentina in July 2022 for €44.6 million after initially joining on loan in October 2020. I Bianconeri swooped just before he dazzled at Euro 2020 as Italy reigned supreme.
Udinese legend Antonio Di Natale gave a glowing verdict of Chiesa at that time. He said (via JuveFC):
"If Chiesa wasn’t a strong player, Juventus wouldn’t have invested so much in him. Already in his first season in Turin he showed what he is worth. And at Euro 2020, he’s confirming his talent with some great plays and goals."
The Arsenal and Chelsea target scored a sensational goal against Spain in a 1-1 draw (4-2 penalties semifinal win) against Spain:
"The one he scored against Spain is of rare beauty. He is a player I like a lot because he is unpredictable. He goes right, left, and makes some fakes. You never know where he’s going."
Chiesa's unpredictability could suit the Premier League, where wingers have much joy due to its pace. If one of the London rivals makes their move for the 46-cap Italy international, he could light up the English top flight.