Journalist confirms Chelsea set to complete defender hijack | OneFootball

Journalist confirms Chelsea set to complete defender hijack | OneFootball

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·24 June 2026

Journalist confirms Chelsea set to complete defender hijack

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Chelsea Move Ahead in Marco Palestra Pursuit as Fabrizio Romano Reveals Deal Details

Chelsea appear to be closing in on one of Italian football’s brightest young talents, with Fabrizio Romano providing a detailed update on Marco Palestra’s future during the latest episode on his YouTube channel.

The transfer expert outlined how Chelsea have dramatically accelerated their pursuit of the Atalanta owned wing back, potentially overtaking Inter in one of the most significant emerging stories of the summer transfer window.


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Chelsea Push Forward for Palestra

Romano opened his update by describing Chelsea’s latest transfer activity as “the Italian job”, highlighting the club’s growing focus on the Italian market.

According to Romano, Chelsea have moved decisively for Palestra, a player he described as “one of the best Italian talents available in Serie A and on the market.”

He explained that Inter had been leading the race for several days.

“For the last seven, 10 days had an agreement done with the player on the contract terms,” Romano said, before revealing how Chelsea changed the dynamic of negotiations.

“During these negotiations, Chelsea have entered very strong the race for Marco Palestra.”

Financial Advantage Gives Chelsea Edge

The key factor appears to be Chelsea’s willingness to outbid their rivals.

Romano stated: “Chelsea have a deal in place with Atalanta.”

He then provided further detail on the financial package being discussed.

“Chelsea have sent tonight an official bid to Atalanta worth more than Inter proposal.”

While Inter were reportedly working on a package worth €45 million plus €5 million in add ons, Chelsea have gone significantly higher.

“They are offering Atalanta more than Inter, a fee in excess of €50 million.”

Romano added that Chelsea’s proposal could eventually reach €60 million through bonuses.

“Chelsea Atalanta deal agreed. Atalanta accepted the bid from Chelsea.”

That development places the Premier League club in a commanding position as negotiations enter their final stages.

Player Decision Remains Crucial

Despite Chelsea’s agreement with Atalanta, Romano stressed that the transfer has not yet been fully completed.

“Now Chelsea are waiting for the final green light from Palestra.”

The player’s decision will determine whether the deal moves forward immediately.

“Then they hope to have the here we go already this week for Marco Palestra.”

Romano even suggested that events could move rapidly.

“Maybe while you’re watching this video, it’s already here we go. I don’t know.”

Should Palestra approve the move, Chelsea are prepared to proceed quickly.

“Chelsea are ready to proceed with medical test and contract signing.”

Chelsea’s Summer Recruitment Strategy

Romano also highlighted what he sees as a shift in Chelsea’s transfer approach.

“I think this is Chelsea new style this summer to try to be even more behind the scenes.”

He referenced previous business involving Real Madrid before explaining how Chelsea quietly positioned themselves for Palestra while Inter were attempting to finalise their own agreement.

Chelsea also explored alternative options in Italy. Romano revealed that the club asked Roma about Wesley, but were informed that the Brazilian was not for sale.

As a result, he concluded: “Chelsea decided to go all in for Marco Palestra.”

With Atalanta accepting Chelsea’s offer and Inter refusing to increase their proposal, the situation now rests largely in the hands of the player. If Palestra gives the green light, Chelsea’s latest Italian recruitment drive could soon deliver another major addition to their squad.

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