Chelsea are set to announce Atalanta defender Marco Palestra as their first signing under new manager Xabi Alonso, according to reports. The initial transfer fee is reported to be €55 million for the Italy international, who spent last season on loan at Cagliari.
Palestra, 21, registered five goal contributions in 37 appearances for Cagliari, primarily featuring as a right wing-back. While other players such as Geovany Quenda, Emmanuel Emegha, and Dastan Satpaev have already arrived at Stamford Bridge this summer, those deals were agreed prior to Alonso’s appointment, making Palestra the first signing directly influenced by the new manager.
Italian football expert Carlo Garganese, speaking to FootballTransfers, described Palestra as “a really exciting player” and “probably the best Italian player in Serie A last season,” highlighting his speed, dribbling ability, and attacking prowess. Garganese noted Palestra’s versatility, stating he can effectively play on either flank, and possesses a fearlessness rarely seen in young players.
Atalanta have developed a reputation for nurturing talented defenders, with players like Alessandro Bastoni, Giorgio Scalvini, and Matteo Ruggeri all emerging from their academy in recent years. Palestra is the latest prospect to leave the club for a major European team. Alonso is believed to have personally convinced Palestra to join Chelsea, reportedly calling the player to outline his vision for his role within the team.
Palestra’s arrival could see a shift in Chelsea’s system, with Alonso potentially favouring a back-five formation, a setup in which the Italian excelled at Cagliari. The player’s physical attributes are considered well-suited to the demands of the Premier League. Chelsea finished 10th in the league last season and will hope to improve significantly under Alonso’s leadership, with Palestra expected to play a key role in those ambitions. The signing is reminiscent of Jeremie Frimpong’s impact under Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, where the right wing-back contributed 40 goals and assists in two seasons.
Palestra is currently undergoing a medical in London and is expected to be officially unveiled as a Chelsea player before the end of the week, and will participate in pre-season training.
