Arsenal miss out on perfect Bukayo Saka alternative as Liverpool close in on bargain transfer

Arsenal are seemingly keen to add a winger who can play a rotational role, but they are running out of time in the transfer window.

There are only a few days left for Mikel Arteta to sign an attacking player, but options in the market are limited.

It appears that a deal to sign top target Nico Williams is impossible, with the player preferring to stay at Athletic Bilbao.

A versatile winger who can add speed to the front line would be the ideal addition to complete the Arsenal squad, and the perfect market opportunity may have presented himself to Arteta.

However, it now appears that Liverpool are set to seize upon the chance to sign a top-quality player who could have served as the perfect Bukayo Saka alternative.

Liverpool in talks to sign Federico Chiesa from Juventus

Fabrizio Romano has now revealed that Liverpool are in talks to sign winger Federico Chiesa from Juventus for around £13m.

“Liverpool and Juventus are in direct contact for Federico Chiesa deal. Negotiations are ongoing and deal is on, as exclusively revealed yesterday. Talks taking place with both player side on salary and club side on fee around €15m (£13m),” he posted on X.

Chiesa was one of Europe’s finest attacking prospects when he helped Italy win Euro 2020 when just 21, but he has struggled with injury since.

Now 26, he did score 10 goals last season after recovering from a long-term absence, but is now set for a fresh start, with Juventus pushing him out of the club.

Chiesa was renowned for his speed and dribbling ability, and he can play anywhere across the front line. If Liverpool can get Chiesa back to his best, they would have secured a potentially world-class player for just £13m.

Federico Chiesa is exactly what Arsenal need this summer

Chiesa is searching for a fresh start as he aims to find his form, and if he were to join Arsenal, he would bring a speedy profile who can cover for both Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, whilst also filling in as a striker.

If Chiesa were to discover his best form under Arteta, he would make himself a starter, and add blistering speed in transition.

If the signing did not work out, Chiesa’s low price tag would make the deal almost risk-free, and he could have been the perfect late-window gamble for Arsenal as they aim to win the Premier League title.