Chelsea have swooped to land Atalanta’s Marco Palestra, hijacking a deal Inter Milan believed was all but done.
The Blues moved late and decisively, agreeing a package with the Italian club to secure one of Serie A’s brightest young defenders.
The fee reflects their determination. Sky Sports News initially understood the total to be around £43m, though the agreement has since firmed up at €55m (£47.3m) plus a sell-on clause. It comfortably outstripped Inter’s offer, prompting Atalanta to change course.
Chelsea hijack Inter to seal Xabi Alonso’s first signing
Palestra becomes Xabi Alonso’s first signing as Chelsea head coach. The Spaniard, who takes charge on July 1, considers the 21-year-old an important addition and played a direct role in landing him.
BREAKING: Marco Palestra to Chelsea, here we go! Verbal agreement in place between all parties.
Atalanta to receive package over €55m fee plus sell-on clause, long term deal to Italian talented RWB.
Indeed, Alonso’s personal touch proved decisive. He spoke directly with Palestra to sell the project, much as he trusted young talents during his time at Bayer Leverkusen.
That conversation helped convince a player who had initially favoured staying in Italy.
His appeal lies in his versatility. Predominantly a wing-back, Palestra can operate on either flank and in a more conventional full-back role.
Alonso values that flexibility, having used a similar system at Leverkusen.
The numbers behind the move catch the eye, too. Palestra was named Serie A’s best defender after a standout loan at Cagliari, ranking second in the division for completed take-ons.
He made his Italy debut in March and is regarded as a key part of the national team’s future.
The signing also has knock-on effects at Stamford Bridge. Palestra’s arrival could free Malo Gusto to leave, with Manchester City and Inter both monitoring the France right-back.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are not done in Italy. Reports suggest further additions could follow as Alonso reshapes his squad ahead of the new season.
BREAKING: Marco Palestra to Chelsea, here we go! Verbal agreement in place between all parties.
