Liverpool may reportedly be offered the chance to loan out Federico Chiesa during the January transfer window.
When Liverpool committed to a £12.5m deal to sign the Juventus forward earlier in 2024, it was perceived that they had pulled off a major coup.
However, the Italy international has barely featured for Arne Slot's side courtesy of a succession of injury issues.
Chiesa has made just one start and three substitute outings in all competitions, all but 19 of his 123 minutes of action being accumulated in the EFL Cup.
According to Tutto Atalanta, a Serie A title contender are now interested in offering the 27-year-old a return to his homeland.
© Imago
Atalanta to make their move?
The report suggests that Atalanta BC are ready to put forward a loan proposal that they hope will suit all parties.
Atalanta are currently enjoying one of their best top-flight campaigns in recent memory, sitting at the top of the Serie A table with 13 wins from 17 matches.
Gian Piero Gasperini's side also possess the joint-best attacking record in the division, yet thought is being given how to maintain a challenge for both the league title and Champions League crown.
As many as 26 of their goals in Serie A have come from Ademola Lookman, Charles De Ketelaere and Mateo Retegui, but extra backup may be required in the short term.
None of Gasperini's squad have started every top-flight fixture during 2024-25, highlighting his willingness to rotate across the course of the campaign.
In theory, that is something that may suit Chiesa, who currently does not appear to be in the condition to start two games in a week.
© Imago
What will Liverpool's stance be?
Of Liverpool's six versatile attackers, Chiesa is at the bottom of the pecking order and he can realistically not expect to start games when the stakes are rising in the hunt for trophies.
That said, from Slot's perspective, the Dutchman will want to sign an alternative if he is to give the green light to Chiesa earning game time elsewhere.
Liverpool may first need to assess their own options before deciding either way. Furthermore, they could theoretically receive offers from other Italian clubs keen on Chiesa and wait for the most lucrative bid.