LIVERPOOL managed to shave £41MILLION off Federico Chiesa’s transfer fee.
Arne Slot’s Reds announced the signing of the Italian winger from Juventus in a £10million up-front deal earlier this week.
But old boss Jurgen Klopp had already tried to get the Euro 2020-winner last summer.
And the German had even tried to get Chiesa two years previously as well, in the wake of his starring performances at the Euros.
However Klopp was repeatedly frustrated in his pursuit of the 26-year-old – with Juventus demanding £51million just 12 months ago, even after Chiesa’s form had taken a hit following a devastating knee injury.
Now the Reds have swooped to finally get their man – for a whopping £41MILLION cheaper.
That’s despite the former Fiorentina playing 33 Serie A games last season, notching his best Juventus goals tally, with nine.
The Reds have now agreed to sign the Italy international for an initial fee of £10million plus £2.5m in add-ons.
Chiesa said, whose Juventus contract had one year remaining, said: “I’m very happy, I can’t wait to become new Liverpool player. Me and my family, we’re so happy really.
“Let me say thanks to Juventus and the fans, they have been always special with me.
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“Now it’s time for Liverpool. I’m so happy. I can’t wait!”
Chiesa has signed a four-year deal with Liverpool as Slot’s first signing.
He was widely regarded as one of the most exciting wingers in Europe before his injury in 2022 and he starred as Italy won Euro 2021 – he was named in the team of the tournament.
In January 2022, Chiesa suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury, ruling him out for seven months.
That has limited him to just six Serie A starts across the past 18 months.
TRANSFER Deadline Day is here - with clubs against the clock to finalise their summer business.
Chelsea reportedly remain in talks to sign Victor Osimhen from Napoli, with time running out for the Blues to complete a deal.
Meanwhile, Ivan Toney is expected to join Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli, according to reports.
Elsewhere, Newcastle are set to walk away from their long-running pursuit of Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi.
In other news, Chelsea and Juventus remain in discussions over a deal for Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho ahead of the 11pm deadline.
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