Michael Owen shares theory on how Liverpool managed to seal bargain Federico Chiesa deal

Michael Owen is confident Federico Chiesa will prove an excellent signing for Liverpool and believes the club's history enabled them to sign him on the cheap.

Chiesa joined Liverpool from Juventus for an initial £10million, plus £2.5m in add-ons, and it is understood that he rejected more lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia to sign a four-year deal at Anfield worth around £80,000-a-week.

"I like him as a player, I think he's got a lot of class," Owen told DAZN. "He's obviously experienced as well and I think he's a good player to bring in to bolster the squad. I don't think he or anyone else is under any illusions that he's going to play every single game.

"He's probably not anticipated starting lots of games but his performances will dictate that. If he does really well then of course he's going to hold a place down but as things start at the early stage of the season, I would suggest that he will be more of an impact player and he's going to have to play his way into the team.

READ MORE: Sky Sports fans can save £216 on their bill, here's three other reasons you'll want to pick it

READ MORE: Liverpool dealt transfer blow as Anthony Gordon offered pay rise and long term deal

"However, as I say he's got class, he's got experience, he's obviously a talented lad, and speaks the language so hopefully he settles in pretty well and then we'll see after that. I think it's a really good buy.

"I think if you were a lesser team you might have to pay a bit more but because he would probably want a move like this once it was announced that maybe he was leaving I think he would want a move like this, so it works for everybody.

‌"Liverpool has almost utilised the club, the badge, the history, and everything else to get somebody who might be worth a little bit more than they've paid. I think it's been a good signing, but again time will tell."

And Chiesa has admitted himself that Liverpool's history helped persuade him to make the move. "When Richard Hughes called me and he said, 'Do you want to join Liverpool?' – and the coach called me – I said yes immediately because I know the history of this club, I know what it represents to the fans," he said.

"So, I'm so happy and I can't wait to get started. It's a dream that has become a reality. When I hear the word Liverpool I think of trophies, victories and the great nights in the Champions League at Anfield.

"It's really emotional for me. I can't wait to hear the anthem and hear all of the 60,000 fans singing 'You'll Never Walk Alone'. I will give everything for this shirt and the fans."

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.