How Chelsea convinced Palestra to abandon Inter promise for €60m | OneFootball

More details are emerging on how Chelsea managed to stun Inter by swooping in for Marco Palestra, as Xabi Alonso played a key role in convincing the Atalanta man, with Newcastle United involved too.

The Nerazzurri had been working on the final details of the transfer for €45m plus add-ons to reach €50m yesterday, when suddenly the situation was turned on its head in a matter of hours.

Chelsea dived in with a vastly improved offer to both Atalanta at €57m plus at least €3m in bonuses and a 10 per cent cut of the future sale fee, and the player, more than doubling the €2.5m per season salary proposed by Inter.

The Serie A title winners would not be drawn into a bidding war, so backed away after months of negotiations.

Palestra left it to Atalanta

CAGLIARI, ITALY – MARCH 20: Marco Palestra of Cagliari reacts during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and SSC Napoli at Stadio Sant’Elia on March 20, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)

Sky Sport Italia outlined what changed behind the scenes to convince Palestra, who had until then seemingly been determined to join Inter.

It noted that Newcastle United and Chelsea had both tried earlier this month to make an offer, but the Italy international had said no because he had promised himself to the Nerazzurri.

The difference was made by first Xabi Alonso personally calling to convince the player of his project, and of course the massive €5m per season wages over a six-year contract.

Sky Sport Italia claim that Palestra called Atalanta last night and informed them that he would gladly accept either of the two offers from Inter and Chelsea, so was leaving it up to them.

CAGLIARI, ITALY – MAY 09: Marco Palestra of Cagliari warms up ahead before  during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Sant’Elia on May 09, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)

With that in mind, La Dea asked Inter if they were prepared to increase the bid to match Chelsea’s, but they opted to withdraw.

It is also rumoured that the Chelsea approach was in the offing, with agent Alessandro Lucci warning Inter, but owners Oaktree would not give the all-clear.