Liverpool won’t sell Federico Chiesa to Besiktas, Man Utd’s Andre Onana sale scuppers Man City transfer – Paper Round

Liverpool have made their stance clear when it comes to Federico Chiesa, and the message is one that has left fans in shock across Europe. Despite the Italian forward being left out of the Reds’ Champions League squad for the group stages, the club have no intention of selling him, not even to Besiktas, who had been circling with interest. The news comes at a crucial point in Liverpool’s season as Arne Slot looks to balance squad depth with the realities of managing a team competing on multiple fronts.

At 27 years old, Chiesa remains a player with plenty of years at the top level ahead of him, and Liverpool’s decision to keep him signals their belief that he has a role to play this season, even if circumstances forced him out of the European squad. Slot and the recruitment team know that the campaign is long, and with domestic fixtures piling up after Christmas, players outside the Champions League squad could still prove decisive in the Premier League and cup competitions.

For Besiktas, this is a blow. The Turkish giants have been seeking attacking reinforcements and saw Chiesa as a dream signing that would not only strengthen their squad but also add global appeal. Negotiations, however, hit a dead end once Liverpool reaffirmed their position. Sources close to the club suggest that while Chiesa has not yet hit his very best form since arriving in England, the Reds believe his dynamism, pace, and experience can still bring value. Slot has told his backroom staff he sees the Italian as an important “rotation weapon” – a player who can change the tempo of games when introduced.

Meanwhile, another headline from the European press concerns Andre Onana and how his future could indirectly impact Manchester City. Reports had emerged linking the Manchester United goalkeeper with a move to Turkey, with Besiktas once again involved in discussions. However, should such a move happen, City’s plans could take a major hit. Pep Guardiola’s side had been monitoring the situation closely, as the domino effect of Onana’s departure might disrupt one of their own carefully laid transfer strategies.

City have been navigating a tricky market as they look to strengthen specific areas of their squad following a busy summer window. Guardiola had reportedly identified a move that depended on United’s handling of their goalkeeper situation. Now, with Onana’s potential transfer to Turkey looking uncertain, City’s pathway to one of their key targets could be scuppered. The exact mechanics remain behind closed doors, but what is clear is that once again the rivalry between United and City stretches beyond the pitch and spills into transfer strategy.

Elsewhere, Wolves have opened contract talks with striker Jorgen Strand Larsen. The Norwegian forward has enjoyed a promising start to life in the Premier League and has impressed Gary O’Neil and his staff. Wolves are keen to secure his future quickly before interest from bigger clubs intensifies. At just 24 years old, Larsen represents both a present and future asset, and tying him down is seen as essential for Wolves’ long-term project.

And in another subplot, Tottenham Hotspur continue to attract investment interest despite publicly stating they are not for sale. Daniel Levy and the Spurs board remain firm in their position, but that hasn’t stopped external parties from circling. The London club have enjoyed a resurgence in form under Ange Postecoglou, which has only added to their appeal for investors seeking a Premier League foothold.

Tuesday’s Paper Round paints a picture of a transfer landscape that never truly rests. Liverpool stand firm on Chiesa, City watch nervously as United’s Onana saga develops, Wolves lock down a rising star, and Spurs fight off suitors. It’s the classic mix of ambition, strategy, and rivalry that defines modern football, with each decision carrying ripple effects that could shape the course of the season