Chelsea announce arrival of Marco Palestra from Atalanta | OneFootball

Chelsea have completed the signing of Italy international defender Marco Palestra from Atalanta.

The 21-year-old arrives at the club for a reported £47 million after having previously spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Cagliari where he was named Serie A's Best Defender.

"A lot of things convinced me to join Chelsea, one of the best clubs in the world," Palestra said after signing a seven-year contract with the Blues.

"I'm very excited to get started. I've felt the energy since the first day Chelsea wanted me. I can't wait to start, see all the fans, my team-mates and the manager.

"We have so many talented players here, a very strong squad and manager in Xabi [Alonso]. He has spoken to me about how he wants us to play, which is exciting, and we can't wait to compete in the Premier League."

Palestra played 36 times for Cagliari in all competitions last season with his performances also earning him first two senior Italy caps in games against Northern Ireland and Bosnia & Herzegovina back in March.