Rio Ferdinand's honest assessment of Federico Chiesa as Liverpool finalize transfer

Liverpool are on the brink of signing Federico Chiesa from Juventus, a move that Rio Ferdinand has previously shown strong support for .

Chiesa will be the first player to join Liverpool under the Arne Slot era, although not technically the first signing as a deal for Giorgi Mamardashvili is already arranged for next summer. This unexpected move shows Richard Hughes fulfilling his promise of seizing opportunities.

Due to a contract deadlock at Juventus, Liverpool has managed to secure Chiesa for a mere $13m (£10m/€12m). This would have been unthinkable just three years ago when Chiesa was highly praised across Europe, including by Ferdinand.

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Chiesa's impressive performance in Euro 2021 left many top clubs regretting their missed opportunity to sign him before Juventus did, initially on a two-year loan from Fiorentina which later became permanent.

Chiesa proved his worth during the tournament, being selected in the Best XI and playing a key role in Italy's victory, even scoring in the semi-final against Spain.

Former Manchester United star Ferdinand was among those impressed by Chiesa. In an interview with the Metro, he suggested that many English teams would be wishing they had signed Chiesa.

Ferdinand said in September 2021: "He's a huge player, and he's been linked with a few clubs in England. I'm sure they're thinking, "why didn't we get him?'"

"He's just a fantastic footballer. The intensity with which he plays with [sic], we saw in the Euros, he was the main goal threat for the Italians who went on to win the tournament."

"It's his pace, his drive. He's the one who is the threat, he's potent, he wants to run in behind. He's that modern-day striker who can play anywhere across the front line and he's as comfortable out wide as he is through the middle. He unnerves defenders with that pace, he's so direct."

Liverpool will likely utilise Chiesa's versatility across the front line, providing depth and potentially covering for Mohamed Salah. However, after a cruciate injury in January 2022, Liverpool will be hoping that Chiesa's pace and drive remain intact.

Despite a different playing style last year, Chiesa remains an effective player, and at 26, his best years may still be ahead of him, making the bargain price a worthwhile gamble.

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