Inter Milan have initiated contact with Atalanta regarding a potential move for right-back Marco Palestra, according to reports in Italy. Inter CEO Beppe Marotta has spoken with Atalanta president Antonio Percassi, though discussions are currently in their early stages and are also contingent on the arrival of new Atalanta coach Maurizio Sarri.
Palestra, 21, enjoyed a successful loan spell with Cagliari this past season after initially breaking into the Atalanta first team under Gian Piero Gasperini. He impressed during his time in Sardinia, earning recognition as the Serie A’s best defender and fastest player – clocked at 27.96 km/h. He also recently made his debut for the Italian national team.
Atalanta are not typically a club compelled to sell players, but are open to considering offers for Palestra, who currently earns €280,000 per year. Inter see Palestra as a versatile option, capable of playing on either flank in their 3-5-2 system, and manager Cristian Chivu has already expressed his admiration for the player, along with teammate Marcus Thuram. The club, backed by Oaktree, views him as a valuable long-term investment.
The potential move is also linked to the future of Denzel Dumfries. The Dutch international has a release clause of €25 million valid until the end of July and could be tempted by a move abroad, potentially after featuring for the Netherlands at the upcoming World Cup. Should Dumfries depart, Palestra would provide immediate competition and cover. Even if Dumfries remains, his presence would allow Palestra to integrate into the squad at a more measured pace, given his local roots as a native of Buccinasco, near Milan.
Inter’s strategy reflects a broader approach of investing in young talent, with the club also monitoring the progress of Luis Henrique and potentially promoting youngster Diouf. The acquisition of Palestra would strengthen their options at right-back and align with their long-term planning.
