Chelsea are set to complete the signing of Marco Palestra from Atalanta in a deal worth over £43 million.
Chelsea are on the verge of completing the signing of highly rated Italian defender Marco Palestra from Atalanta in a deal worth more than £43 million.
The 21-year-old is expected to become the first arrival of the Xabi Alonso era at Stamford Bridge as the club begins reshaping its squad ahead of the new season.
According to reports, Chelsea have reached a verbal agreement with all parties involved, with Atalanta set to receive a package worth more than €55 million, including a sell-on clause.
The talented right wing-back is expected to sign a long-term contract, making him Xabi Alonso’s first signing since the Spaniard agreed to take charge of the Blues.
🚨🔵 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.
Chelsea hijack Inter move and get new talent for Xabi Alonso. pic.twitter.com/W3ktXVK6EV
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 24, 2026
Palestra had previously been tipped to join Inter Milan after an impressive loan spell with Cagliari last season. The young defender earned widespread praise for his performances and was named Serie A’s Best Defender, making him one of the most sought-after talents in Italian football.
🚨🔵 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.
Chelsea hijack Inter move and get new talent for Xabi Alonso. pic.twitter.com/W3ktXVK6EV
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 24, 2026
However, Chelsea moved decisively to hijack Inter’s pursuit and now appear to have won the race for his signature. After extensive discussions, the Premier League side emerged as Palestra’s preferred destination, with Inter unable to match the financial package offered by the Blues.
